Testing for PPROM

How is PPROM Diagnosed?

Doctors use several tests to find out if your water broke early:

1. Speculum Exam: the doctor uses a tool to look inside the vagina to see if there is fluid leaking from the cervix.

2. Nitrazine Test (pH test): the doctor tests the amniotic fluid’s pH level using a paper test strip.

3. Ferning Test: the doctor takes a small sample of amniotic fluid and looks at it under a microscope.

4. Ultrasound: this imaging test measures how much amniotic fluid is in the amniotic sac.

5. Special Swab Tests (like AmniSure or Actim PROM): a swab test to specifically identify amniotic fluid.

Please note: if you have questions about the tests used, speak with your doctor. In some cases you may need more than one test to identify if fluid is leaking.

Diagnosis of Premature Rupture of Membranes: Inspiration From the Past and Insights for the Future