Consider addressing common questions about PPROM
Preterm labor (PTL) is defined as spontaneous contractions leading to cervical dilation prior to 37 weeks gestation with or without rupture of the membranes. Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is defined as indicated by the presence of amniotic fluid leaking prior to term or prior to any clinical evidence of cervical change.
The cause of PPROM is largely unknown; however, many theories exist regarding potential etiologies, such as an increased risk in certain maternal genetic polymorphisms and certain environmental exposures. Other known associations with PPROM include smoking, multiple gestation pregnancies, bacterial vaginosis in the first trimester, a previous history of PTL or PPROM, post dates pregnancy and intra-amniotic infection/inflammation (IAI).
The long-term implications of PPROM include neonatal complications that can arise from preterm birth and prematurity such as breathing problems, vision problems, low birth weight and cognitive difficulties. These issues are usually due to inadequate treatment for preterm infants whose mother has had a PPROM event. Furthermore, maternal interventions including antibiotics, pulmonary surfactant treatment and caesarean section may also be necessary when managing PPROM pregnancies depending on the gestational age at which the event occurs.
Include a section on prevention of PPROM
PPROM, or Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes, is a complication that occurs in pregnancy when the amniotic sac surrounding the baby breaks too soon. This can lead to a premature birth and an increased risk of certain health complications.
The exact cause of PPROM is typically unknown, but there are several possible factors that can increase the likelihood of PPROM. These include:
* Smoking during pregnancy
* Having an infection such as chlamydia or gonorrhea before or during pregnancy
* Being pregnant with multiple babies
* An earlier preterm birth
Preventing PPROM can be difficult because it’s not always possible to know which women will experience the condition. However, there are measures that can be taken to reduce the chances of PPROM occurring. These include taking prenatal vitamins, eating a balanced diet, staying active during pregnancy, and attending regular checkups with an obstetrician. Additionally, it’s important for pregnant women to practice safe sex in order to avoid infections that could potentially lead to PPROM.
Include stories from mothers who have dealt with PPROM
Mrs. Sheilds found out she was pregnant with triplets in her 11th week of pregnancy. Everything was going great until week 15 when she was diagnosed with PPROM, or Premature Preterm Rupture of the Membranes. This meant some of the amniotic fluid surrounding her babies had prematurely started leaking and if left untreated could have serious implications on the health and well-being of her unborn. Treated with antibiotics, medications to reduce labor contractions, and a strict bed rest, Mrs. Sheilds was able to maintain her high risk pregnancy for an additional 26 weeks until full term!
Mrs Faithfull reported that at about 22 weeks into her pregnancy she went for an ultrasound scan only to find out that she had also developed PPROM. Although it came as quite a shock to her at first, upon hearing from her doctor how best to manage this sudden difficulty in her pregnancy she decided that bed rest was key. Carefully monitoring herself every day and doing practically everything from the comfort of her own bed came with its restraints but Mrs Faithfull felt composed being able to still perform small everyday tasks like joining school run check ins online or reading up on reviews for the nursery furniture set she wanted for the baby’s arrival.Her positive attitude carried on through the remaining monthsof gestation giving news of a full-term healthy delivery by week 37!
Add a list of resources
1. March of Dimes – https://www.marchofdimes.org/pregnancy/pfor-short-for-pprom-preterm-premature-rupture-of-membranes.aspx
2. Mayo Clinic – https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pprom/symptoms-causes/syc-20356041
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternalinfanthealth/ppromtacp.html
4. ACOG (American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology) – https://www.acog.org/-/media/project/acog/acogorg/clinical /practiceadvisory/committeeopinionpapers /co58398warmsensitivetopicforprint_pdf_englishupdated72018supersedes57939comso59399-.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20201118T0113575170
5. National Institute of Health – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK535008/?report=reader
6. NHS (National Health Service) UK –https://www.nhsinform
Welcome to my fertility blog. This is a space where I will be sharing my experiences as I navigate through the world of fertility treatments, as well as provide information and resources about fertility and pregnancy.
