What causes a pregnant woman's water to break?
Amniotic fluid leakage during pregnancy, also known as premature rupture of membranes (PROM), has an unclear pathogenesis. It may result from increased intra-amniotic pressure, uneven stress on the fetal membranes, or genital tract infections. Depending on gestational progress, delivery can be conducted vaginally or via surgery under a doctor's guidance.
1. Increased intra-amniotic pressure: The amniotic sac forms a closed system, but the uterus is not fully enclosed—the cervical os serves as the uterine opening, and the portion of the amniotic sac near this area becomes thinner due to pressure. Conditions such as twin pregnancy or polyhydramnios may lead to rupture of the amniotic sac at the cervical os, resulting in premature rupture of membranes.
2. Uneven stress on the fetal membranes: The amniotic sac is an intact structure. Abnormal fetal position, oligohydramnios, or cephalopelvic disproportion can cause uneven pressure on the amniotic sac, potentially leading to PROM. After premature rupture of membranes, vaginal delivery or cesarean section should be performed promptly as advised by a physician.
3. Genital tract infection: The cervix acts as the entrance to the uterus and connects with the vagina. When a woman suffers from vaginal diseases or cervical inflammation, bacteria and pathogens may contaminate the amniotic sac, causing it to rupture. For PROM caused by genital tract infection, physicians generally do not recommend measures to maintain the pregnancy, to avoid the risk of intrauterine infection.