PRETERM PREMATURE RUPTURE OF MEMBRANES (PPROM)

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is a complication that can arise in pregnancy. When it happens, the aminonic membrane (the sac) surrounding the baby breaks (ruptures) before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Once the sac breaks, there is an increased risk of infection.

PPROM can often be triggered by an infection in the uterus, or an imbalance in the microbiome (the microbes that live naturally within and on us). During prenatal/preconception care – the period where we work to optimise the health of the mother and partner (if relevant) before conceiving – looking at the vaginal and reproductive microbiome is really important. If there are any signs or symptoms of disruption in the microbiome (such as gut conditions, immune conditions, or localised microbiome disruption such as urinary tract infections (UTI’s), thrush, or bacterial vaginosis (BV) – then this absolutely needs addressing. Even more so if the mother has experienced PPROM in previous pregnancies.

In these instances, vaginal microbiome testing is so incredibly beneficial, to glean insight into the microbial composition of the reproductive tract. Then, tactics can be put into place to modulate this and bring it into balance. This may include antibiotics to get rid of any infections or bacterial overgrowth, or specific probiotic strains for the vagina and pregnancy health.

For naturopathic prenatal and pregnancy appointments please email hello@bridgetbnaturopathy.com