How soon labour may start after your waters break

The advice you receive depends on how far along the pregnancy is, whether contractions have begun, the colour and smell of the fluid, your baby's movements and any infection or pregnancy concerns.

Amniotic fluid may appear as a sudden gush or a continuing trickle that cannot be controlled like urine. It is often clear or pale, but colour and odour matter. A maternity assessment can help distinguish ruptured membranes from urine or increased vaginal discharge.

Contractions can begin before, around the same time as, or after the membranes rupture. Once the protective sac has opened, the clinical team considers infection risk alongside the wellbeing of you and your baby. If this happens before the pregnancy has reached term, assessment is especially urgent because it may be associated with preterm labour.

Note when the leaking began and observe the fluid's colour, smell and approximate amount. Wear a clean sanitary pad rather than a tampon, and call your maternity unit or labour ward for individual instructions. Tell them your stage of pregnancy, whether contractions are occurring, how your baby is moving and whether you feel unwell.

Follow the unit's advice about coming in for assessment. Until reviewed, avoid putting anything into the vagina. Keep monitoring fetal movement and temperature if your team asks you to, and arrange transport so you can attend promptly if the situation changes.

Contact the maternity unit immediately if the fluid is green, brown, bloody or unpleasant-smelling; your baby is moving less than usual; you have fever, chills, constant abdominal pain or heavy bleeding; or the waters break before term. Call emergency services for severe bleeding, collapse, breathing difficulty, or if you can see or feel the umbilical cord.

Ask how the team will confirm that the membranes have ruptured, whether you and your baby need monitoring, and what changes should trigger an immediate return. If contractions do not begin, clarify when reassessment or induction may be discussed and whether your pregnancy history changes the plan.