What Is ROM Labor Induction?

Rupturing the membranes is one way to induce labor.

Nine months of pregnancy can feel like long enough without having to wait an extra week or two. For many reasons, doctors or midwives sometimes must encourage labor to start instead of waiting for it to begin on its own. Rupturing of membranes (ROM) is one approach.

Reasons

Rupture of membranes--also known as AROM (artificial rupture of membranes), amniotomy or breaking of waters--is one way to induce labor. Labor is induced because of medical complications, an aging placenta, low amniotic fluid, uterine infection or if the pregnancy is beyond 42 weeks.

Procedure

A doctor or midwife ruptures the amniotic sac with a small plastic hook, releasing a gush of warm fluid. The procedure--usually performed in a hospital--is best done if the cervix is a little dilated and the baby's head has descended into the pelvis.

How it Works

When the amniotic sac is ruptured, the body produces more prostaglandins, which increase contractions. In addition, the baby's head might push against the cervix, which can make contractions stronger.

Advantages

Rupture of the membranes can speed up labor. Health care providers can examine amniotic fluid for meconium, or dark green stools, which may indicate fetal distress. Also, a heart rate monitor can be attached to the baby's scalp.

Risks

If the amniotic sac is ruptured before the baby's head has descended, the baby may become breech, or turn with its feet or buttocks facing the birth canal. Another risk is that the umbilical cord might slip out and become compressed. Also, infection is possible.

References

• American Pregnancy Association: Inducing Labor

Resources

• What to Expect: Labor and Delivery: Artificial Rupture of Membranes