Breaking of water during pregnancy

The membranes can rupture before labour begins or while contractions are under way. The timing, fluid colour, baby's movements, and stage of pregnancy help the team decide whether you need immediate assessment and what monitoring is suitable.

Amniotic fluid usually leaks from the vagina without being under your control. It may soak clothing at once, dampen a pad gradually, or recur when you stand or move. Clear or pale fluid is common, and a slight pink tinge can occur. Bladder leakage and normal pregnancy discharge can be mistaken for broken waters, so uncertainty is a reason to call rather than wait for a larger gush.

Put on a clean sanitary pad and remember the time the fluid first appeared. Check its colour and smell, notice whether contractions are occurring, and pay attention to the baby's usual movement pattern. Do not use a tampon or insert anything into the vagina. Phone your maternity unit and follow its advice about travelling in, eating or drinking, and bringing your pregnancy records.

Arrange urgent maternity assessment if the fluid is green, brown, foul-smelling, or accompanied by significant bleeding; movement is reduced; you develop fever, severe abdominal pain, or feel acutely unwell; or leaking begins before full term. Call emergency services if you see or feel the umbilical cord, have heavy bleeding, or feel that birth is imminent. Do not handle a visible cord; follow emergency instructions while help is coming.

You may want to ask whether testing confirms that the waters have broken, how the baby's wellbeing will be checked, and whether signs of infection are present. Ask what the plan is if contractions do not begin, which symptoms require immediate attention, and when you should return if you are advised to continue monitoring at home.