Premature rupture of membranes is a rupture of the membranes before labor begins. If PROM occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it is called preterm premature rupture of membranes. PROM occurs in about 8 to 10 percent of all pregnancies. Preterm premature rupture of the membranes is a pregnancy complication. In this condition, the sac (amniotic membrane) surrounding your baby breaks (ruptures) before week 37 of pregnancy. Once the sac breaks, you have an increased risk for infection. You also have a higher chance of having your baby born early. Corticosteroids should be given to patients with preterm PROM between 24 and 32 weeks gestation to decrease the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage, respiratory distress syndrome, and necrotizing enterocolitis.