Vedenmurtuminen

Vedenmurtuminen, also known as water breaking, is the term used to describe the rupture of the amniotic sac during pregnancy. The amniotic sac is a membrane that surrounds the fetus and contains amniotic fluid. When this sac breaks, the fluid is released, which can manifest as a trickle or a gush of liquid. This event typically signals the onset of labor, although it does not always immediately lead to contractions.

The timing of water breaking can vary significantly. In many cases, it occurs during active labor, after regular contractions have already begun. However, in some instances, it can happen before labor starts, a condition known as premature rupture of membranes (PROM). If PROM occurs before 37 weeks of gestation, it is termed preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Once the amniotic sac has ruptured, it is important to contact a healthcare provider. This is because the protective barrier against infection is gone, increasing the risk of the mother and baby developing an infection. Healthcare providers will typically assess the situation and may recommend either waiting for labor to begin naturally or inducing labor, depending on factors such as the gestational age of the fetus and any signs of infection. The color and odor of the released fluid can also provide important information to the healthcare provider.