Failure to Identify & Address Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes

According to a study conducted by doctors for the Florida Hospital Family Practice Residency Program in Orlando, approximately 3 percent of pregnant mothers experience “preterm premature rupture of membranes” (PPROM) before 37 weeks gestation. PROM occurs when fetal membranes (such as the amniotic sac and secondary umbilical vesicle) rupture before labor begins, placing unborn children at immediate risk of lethal injury.

If not promptly recognized and addressed by a physician, PPROM can have severe effects on children in utero, such as:

• Respiratory distress
• Sepsis
• Umbilical cord prolapse
• Placental abruption
• Death

Common Reasons for Misdiagnosis of PPROM

When an expecting mother is experiencing PPROM, she is likely to have at least one of the following symptoms:

• Fluid leakage from the vagina
• Sudden gushing of fluid from the vagina
• Wetness in the underwear, pants, undercarriage, etc.

PPROM is usually diagnosed by testing the pH balance of the mother’s urine and evaluating a sample of the amniotic fluid under a microscope. (Doctors may also conduct an ultrasound exam in order to see how much amniotic fluid is around the child in utero.) Failure to address PPROM quickly can result in bacterial infection and inflammation of the fetal membranes, which can cause fever, abdominal pain, fetal tachycardia, and other unpleasant symptoms. It can also cause the child in question to die or experience life-altering injuries.

In many cases, doctors opt to perform cesarean sections or administer medicine to prevent preterm labor from occurring. When doctors fail to properly investigate mothers’ complaints of fluid leakage or vaginal wetness, it can be detrimental for the mother and the child.

Misdiagnosis & Medical Malpractice Lawyers Serving Clients Throughout Florida

If you have suffered because your doctor failed to recognize the signs of PPROM and intervene, you may have a case for misdiagnosis and medical malpractice. We may be able to help you take legal action against them and recover the compensation you deserve. At Freidin Brown, P.A., we have served many people who have suffered as a result of misdiagnosis and failure to respond to signs and symptoms, and we are prepared to evaluate your case for free.

Call 305-371-3666 today to speak to a misdiagnosis lawyer in Florida.