Device for mechanical testing of fetal membranes (chorioamnion)

Preterm delivery occurs in about 11% of all pregnancies in the United States and is one of the leading causes of perinatal morbidity and mortality [1]. In the last two decades number of premature births has increased by 15% [2]. Premature rupture of fetal membranes alone is associated with 30 to 40 percent of all preterm births and is considered one of the main obstetrical complications resulting preterm delivery [3]. Factors that affect rupture of fetal membranes may be pathological, mechanical or biochemical. In order to understand the mechanical influences of fetal membrane rupture is necessary to examine the properties of the membrane.