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The term "premature rupture of membranes" specifically refers to the rupture of the amniotic sac before the onset of labor. This condition is critical to understand because it can have significant implications for both the mother and the fetus. When the protective membranes that hold the amniotic fluid rupture ahead of time, it can lead to various complications, including increased risk of infection for both the mother and baby, as well as potential changes in the fetal heart rate patterns due to decreased cushioning.

In contrast, the rupture of the placenta during labor or early delivery of the fetus are conditions that pertain to different processes in the childbirth scenario. The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid, while a related aspect of pregnancy and delivery, does not describe the rupture of membranes but rather involves the fetal waste that can indicate fetal distress or complications. Understanding these distinctions is important for effective assessment and management during childbirth.