10-week-old human embryo surrounded by amniotic fluid and fetal<unk>  Weak<unk>  Fetal<unk>  likely break because they become weak and fragile. This weakening is a normal process that typically happens at term as the body prepares for labor and delivery. However, this can be a problem when it occurs before 37 weeks (preterm). The natural weakening of fetal<unk>  is thought to be due to one or a combination of the following. In PROM, these processes are activated too early: * Cell death: when cells undergo programmed cell death, they release biochemical markers that are detected in higher concentrations in cases of PPROM. * Poor assembly of collagen: collagen is a molecule that gives fetal<unk> , as well as other parts of the human body such as the skin, their strength. In cases of PPROM, proteins that bind and cross-link collagen to increase its tensile strength are altered. * Breakdown of collagen: collagen is broken down by enzymes called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which are found at higher levels in PPROM amniotic fluid. This breakdown results in prostaglandin production which stimulates uterine contractions and cervical ripening. MMPs are inhibited by tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) which are found at lower levels in PPROM amniotic fluid. Infection Infection and inflammation likely explains why<unk>  break earlier than they are supposed to. In studies, bacteria have been found in the amniotic fluid from about one-third of cases of PROM. Often, testing of the amniotic fluid is normal, but a subclinical infection (too small to detect) or infection of maternal tissues adjacent to the amniotic fluid, may still be a contributing factor. In response to infection, the resultant infection and release of chemicals (cytokines) subsequently weakens the fetal<unk>  and put them at risk for<unk> . PROM is also a risk factor in the development of neonatal infections. Genetics Many genes play a role in inflammation and collagen production, therefore inherited genes may play a role in predisposing a person to PROM.
Prelabor rupture of membranes
Urinary incontinence
Postpartum infections
Bacterial vaginosis
Septic abortion
Obstructed labour
Toxic abortion
After-birth abortion