Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM) happens when a pregnant woman’s water breaks before labour starts. The treatment for PROM depends on how far along the pregnancy is and whether there are signs of infections. Let’s explore the different PROM treatments and how doctors manage this condition to ensure the best outcome.
Treatments For Prelabor Rupture of Membranes
PROM treatment depends on various factors— stage of pregnancy, signs of infection, and the baby’s condition.
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Treatment at 37 weeks or later (term PROM)
If PROM happens at full term (after 37 weeks), the main concern is preventing infection and ensuring a safe delivery. The usual treatment includes:
- Waiting for labour to start: In most cases, labour starts naturally within 24 hours.
- Inducing labour if needed: Doctors may use medicines like oxytocin to start contractions if labour does not begin independently. This helps reduce the risk of infection.
- Antibiotics: If there are signs of infection, antibiotics are given to protect the mother and baby.
- Monitoring the baby: Doctors check the baby’s heartbeat regularly to ensure they are not distressed.
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Treatment before 37 weeks (PPROM)
If the waters break too early, doctors focus on balancing the risks of infection and premature birth. Treatment options include:
- Hospital monitoring: Women with PPROM are often admitted to the hospital for close monitoring. This includes checking for:
- Signs of infection (fever or unusual discharge)
- Contractions and signs of early labour
- The baby’s heart rate
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics are given to prevent infections. They also help prolong the pregnancy, giving the baby more time to develop inside the womb.
- Steroid injections: Steroid injections help the baby’s lungs develop faster. This reduces breathing problems if the baby is born early. Steroids are usually given if the pregnancy is between 24 and 34 weeks.
- Deciding when to deliver: Doctors aim to keep the baby in the womb for as long as it is safe. However, if there are complications, then an early delivery may be necessary, either through induction or a C-section.
Conclusion
Treatment of PROM in pregnancy is crucial for both the mother's and baby’s health. Given the complexity of treatments, it is also important for expectant mothers to have a reliable health insurance policy. A comprehensive policy can help cover the costs of hospital stays, medications, and necessary procedures, ensuring both the mother and baby receive essential care.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.