Labor induction in the patient with preterm premature rupture of membranes

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) affects up to one-third of all preterm births and confers serious maternal risks, including intra-amniotic infection, and an increased risk of neonatal complications, including respiratory distress and intraventricular hemorrhage. Management of PPROM is a highly individualized process that requires an accurate determination of gestational age and causal factors, as well as the balancing of maternal and fetal risks. In this review of the existing literature on induction of labor in PPROM, we examine the differences in appropriate management of patients with early (32 weeks 0 days to 33 weeks 6 days) and near term (34 weeks 0 days to 36 weeks 6 days) PPROM, and compare the safety and efficacy of available treatment options. This review of previous research findings provides general guidelines for clinical decision making and highlights the need for future research on management of PPROM.