Answer:

Rupture of membranes is when the amniotic sac breaks, causing amniotic fluid to leak out, typically occurring during labor. Premature rupture of membranes (PROM) is when the amniotic sac ruptures before uterine contractions begin, usually before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Causes include: genital tract infection, a short cervix, a history of preterm birth or PROM, multiple pregnancy, polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid), cervical incompetence, maternal smoking, abdominal trauma, and malnutrition.

For your case, at 36 weeks, the baby's organs are well-developed and ready to adapt to the post-birth environment. Therefore, if PROM occurs, the prognosis is not likely to significantly affect the baby, so you should not worry excessively.

Doctor of Medicine, Level II Specialist Nguyen Ba My Nhi, Director of the Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, examines a pregnant woman. *Photo: Minh Tam*

However, PROM remains an obstetric situation requiring close monitoring. When the amniotic sac ruptures before labor, bacteria from the vagina can enter the amniotic cavity, increasing the risk of infection for both the mother and the fetus. In such cases, watch for signs like: fever, abdominal pain, foul-smelling vaginal discharge, or early labor.

You should have regular prenatal check-ups as advised by your doctor, limit movement, and maintain vaginal hygiene. If you experience fever, increased abdominal pain, or weak fetal movement, you should go to the hospital. Doctors will consider short-term monitoring or actively terminating the pregnancy to limit the risk of amniotic infection.

To prevent PROM, pregnant women should have regular prenatal check-ups, maintain proper vaginal hygiene, seek early treatment for gynecological infections, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Pregnant women at risk of PROM are monitored for fetal heart rate and uterine contractions using a monitoring system (CTG), combined with ultrasound to assess amniotic fluid levels and fetal development. Doctors provide individualized treatment plans to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Doctor of Medicine, Level I Specialist Nguyen Thi Minh Phuong

Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM