The term for a puncture of the amniotic sac is called an amniotomy.
An amniotomy is a procedure that involves intentionally breaking the amniotic sac, which surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. This is typically done by a healthcare provider during labor to help facilitate delivery. The procedure can help to increase the strength and frequency of contractions, potentially speeding up the labor process.
While an amniotomy can be beneficial, it is also important to monitor the mother and baby closely afterward. This is because breaking the amniotic sac can lead to a number of changes, including altering the baby’s environment and increasing the risk of infection. Therefore, it is usually performed only when deemed necessary by the attending medical team.