Premature Rupture of the Fetal Membranes

The membranes surrounding the amniotic cavity are composed of the amnion and the chorion, which are closely adherent layers consisting of several cell types, including epithelial cells, mesenchymal cells, and trophoblast cells, embedded in a collagenous matrix. They retain amniotic fluid, secrete substances both into the amniotic fluid and toward the uterus, and guard the fetus against infection ascending the reproductive tract. The membranes normally rupture during labor. Premature rupture of the fetal membranes is defined as rupture of the membranes before the onset of labor.1 Premature rupture of the membranes occurring before 37 weeks' gestation is usually referred to . . .