Which term describes rupture of membranes before labor at term (≥37 weeks)?

Which term describes rupture of membranes before labor at term (≥37 weeks)?

• A. PROM
• B. PPROM
• C. SROM
• D. AROM

Answer: (A)

Rupture of membranes before labor begins at term is PROM. PROM stands for premature rupture of membranes, with term defined as 37 weeks or more, so when the membranes rupture before labor starts at or beyond 37 weeks, that’s PROM. If rupture happens before 37 weeks, it’s PPROM (preterm PROM). If rupture occurs during labor, it’s SROM (spontaneous rupture of membranes). If rupture is intentionally induced by the clinician, it’s AROM (artificial rupture of membranes). Recognizing PROM at term matters because it influences infection risk monitoring and decisions about how to manage labor, including whether to induce labor or continue expectant management.

Rupture of membranes before labor begins at term is PROM. PROM stands for premature rupture of membranes, with term defined as 37 weeks or more, so when the membranes rupture before labor starts at or beyond 37 weeks, that’s PROM. If rupture happens before 37 weeks, it’s PPROM (preterm PROM). If rupture occurs during labor, it’s SROM (spontaneous rupture of membranes). If rupture is intentionally induced by the clinician, it’s AROM (artificial rupture of membranes). Recognizing PROM at term matters because it influences infection risk monitoring and decisions about how to manage labor, including whether to induce labor or continue expectant management.