Effects of Acupuncture in Spontaneous Rapture of Membranes: Applicability and Effectiveness

Effects of Acupuncture in Spontaneous Rapture of Membranes: Applicability and Effectiveness

The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of acupuncture in women presenting with spontaneous rapture of membranes (PROM) at term and negative swab for Streptococcus Agalactie to promote a spontaneous onset of labour and avoid labour induction after 24 hours, accordingly to our policy. Secondary outcomes were considered the duration of first and second stage of labour, the time elapsed between PROM and delivery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• PROM after 37 weeks of gestation
• absence of maternal and fetal complications
• negative swab of Streptococcus Agalactiae
• limpid amniotic fluid
• absence of uterine contractions after 6 hours of observation
• single pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

• PROM before 37 weeks of gestation
• presence of maternal and fetal complications
• positive swab of GBS
• M1 - M3 amniotic fluid
• regular uterine contractions during the first 6 hours of observation
• twin pregnancy