An amniotomy is a procedure that artificially breaks a woman’s water to induce labor. As with all medical procedures, an amniotomy comes with both risks and benefits. It’s important for doctors and patients alike to understand exactly what this procedure entails and how it can affect labor. What are the risks associated with an amniotomy? When is it appropriate? Read on to answer these questions and learn more about the purpose of an amniotomy.

What’s an Amniotomy and Why Would You Need It?

An amniotomy refers to the process of rupturing a woman’s amniotic membrane by hand. This membrane makes up the amniotic sac, a pouch of fluid that protects the baby during pregnancy. When the sac ruptures—also known as water breaking—it releases hormones that tell the body to begin labor contractions.

Doctors might want to perform an amniotomy to induce labor or accelerate a long labor. Alternatively, an amniotomy can make it easier to assess the health of the baby with internal monitors. Doctors might also perform an amniotomy so they can study amniotic fluid to determine the health of the baby or mother.

What Happens During an Amniotomy?

During an amniotomy, the doctor will insert an amnihook amniotic membrane perforator through the vagina to safely rupture the amniotic sac. Medical professionals might use thin surgical amnihooks or a hooked amnicot at the end of their finger. Once the membrane ruptures and the patient’s water breaks, amniotic fluid will pour out. Doctors can then continue with the labor process or test the fluid for the presence of meconium or other crucial information.

Potential Risks of an Amniotomy

There are a few risks associated with an amniotomy, especially if medical professionals perform the procedure too early or if there are already complications with labor (such as defects in the baby or underlying medical conditions with the mother).

One of the biggest concerns is umbilical cord prolapse, which happens when the umbilical cord precedes the baby. Umbilical cord prolapse can cut off blood supply to the baby and complicate delivery.

Infection is another risk of an amniotomy. The amniotic sac protects the baby from infections. Once the membrane ruptures, both the baby and the mother are vulnerable to infections that may enter the uterus.

Finally, medical professionals must be careful to avoid harming the baby. Fetal scalp trauma and other injuries can occur if they don’t perform the procedure carefully.

Cascade Health Care provides medical professionals with everything they need to give their patients the best care possible. With the right knowledge and medical supplies, doctors can perform amniotomies safely and proceed with a successful labor and delivery.