The cervix is visualised and you'll be asked to cough. If the waters have gone, a gush of water is often seen coming out of the cervix, Some doctors use Amni-stix or nitrizine sticks which change colour when dipped into liquor. Swabs are also taken to check for the presence of infection. Once it is confirmed that the waters have gone, your obstetrician will discuss with you the plan until delivery. There is no simple definition of what it the right thing to do, and it will depend very much on exactly how far on the pregnancy is and if there are any signs to suggest the presence of infection.
Infection is the main risk to the continuing pregnancy once PROM is confirmed.
The amniotic membranes and liquor represent a formidable barrier to infection, and now bacteria may work their way from the lower genital tract into the womb, causing infection around the baby. The other main risk to the baby is that of prematurity, should she be born now. Prematurely born babies face several problems, the most severe of which can be breathing difficulties, as the lungs are not adequately developed. All the babe's systems are immature and premature infants face many weeks on a special care unit depending on the age at which they are born. The earlier PROM occurs, the longer is the latency period until contractions begin.