Which medical term refers to the rupture of the amniotic membrane?

The term that refers to the rupture of the amniotic membrane is "amniorrhexis." This term is derived from the Greek words “amnion,” which refers to the innermost membrane that surrounds the embryo, and “rrhexis,” which means rupture. Therefore, amniorrhexis specifically describes the event of the amniotic sac breaking, which is commonly known as a woman's water breaking during labor.

Amniocentesis, on the other hand, is a procedure that involves inserting a needle through the abdomen to withdraw amniotic fluid for testing, not related to rupture. Amnionitis refers to an inflammation of the amniotic sac, indicating an infection rather than a rupture. Amnioscopy is a procedure that allows visualization of the amniotic fluid and the fetus, but does not refer to the rupture of the membrane itself. Identifying these distinctions helps in understanding the clinical implications and procedural contexts of each term.