Artificial rupture of membranes

Artificial rupture of membranes can be used for labor induction.

A sterile, plastic, thin hook is brushed against the membranes just inside the cervix, causing the fetal head to move down against the cervix, usually resulting in the contractions becoming stronger and eventually causing the membranes to rupture. ^[1]

Advantages of artificial rupture of the membranes include:

• Labor may be shortened by an hour.^[1]
• It facilitates collection of the amniotic fluid, which can be examined, e.g. for the presence of meconium, indicating fetal distress.^[1]
• The fetal heart rate can be monitored with cardiotocography directly on the baby's scalp.^[1]

Disadvantages of artificial rupture of the membranes include:

• The baby may turn to a breech position, making birth more difficult if the membranes are ruptured before head engagement.^[1]
• There is an increased risk of umbilical cord prolapse.^[1]
• There is an increased risk of infection if there is a prolonged time between rupture and birth.^[1]

See also

• rupture of membranes

References