What should I do if my water breaks at 7 months of pregnancy?

Under normal circumstances, the management of premature rupture of membranes at 7 months of pregnancy mainly includes emergency positioning care, anti-infection treatment, fetal preservation therapy, promotion of fetal lung maturity, and preparation for delivery. Specific details are as follows:

1. Emergency Positioning Care

Immediately place the pregnant woman in a supine position and elevate her hips using a soft pillow placed beneath them to reduce amniotic fluid leakage and prevent umbilical cord prolapse. The patient should remain calm and avoid vigorous activity. Call emergency services promptly, maintaining the elevated hip position throughout transport, while closely monitoring the mother's consciousness and fetal movements.

2. Anti-Infection Treatment

After rupture of the amniotic membranes, the uterine cavity becomes connected to the external environment, increasing the risk of infection. Antibiotics should be administered under medical supervision to prevent infection. Commonly used medications include sodium penicillin for injection, ceftriaxone sodium for injection, and azithromycin dispersible tablets, which help reduce the risk of maternal and neonatal infections.

3. Fetal Preservation Therapy

If the fetus is stable and there is still adequate amniotic fluid, fetal preservation therapy may be performed to prolong gestational age. Doctors may prescribe uterine contraction inhibitors such as ritodrine hydrochloride tablets, magnesium sulfate injection, or progesterone capsules to suppress contractions and allow more time for fetal development.

4. Promotion of Fetal Lung Maturation

At seven months of gestation, fetal lung development is not yet complete. Medications must be used to promote fetal lung maturation and improve survival rates after birth. Commonly used drugs include dexamethasone sodium phosphate injection and betamethasone injection. All medication use must strictly follow medical instructions.

5. Preparation for Delivery

If excessive amniotic fluid loss occurs, or if signs of fetal distress or infection appear, timely preparation for delivery is necessary. Doctors will assess both maternal and fetal conditions to determine the most appropriate mode of delivery. After birth, targeted neonatal care—such as thermal support and respiratory assistance—should be provided.

In addition, the entire process must take place in a qualified medical facility, with full cooperation from the pregnant woman and her family. During treatment, maintain good external genital hygiene, avoid sexual intercourse and tub bathing, closely monitor vital signs such as body temperature and fetal heart rate, and immediately report any abnormalities to the doctor.