skip to main content

Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes — DRCOG MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardAntenatal CarePreterm prelabour rupture of membranesDRCOG

A 26-year-old woman at 29 weeks reports a sudden gush of clear fluid and ongoing wetness. She has mild cramps, temperature 37.2°C and fetal movements are normal. Speculum examination in maternity triage shows pooling of fluid. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes

Pooling of clear fluid before labour and before 37 weeks is most consistent with preterm prelabour rupture of membranes. Urinary leakage and discharge can mimic the presentation, but ongoing fluid loss with speculum pooling is the discriminating feature. Threatened preterm labour may coexist, but the key diagnosis is membrane rupture. The pearl is that digital vaginal examination should be avoided unless labour is established.

Reference: NICE NG25; NICE NG201