Causes of waters breaking early in pregnancy

The membranes form a fluid-filled sac around the baby. They may rupture before contractions begin; when this happens before the pregnancy has reached term, clinicians may call it preterm prelabour rupture of membranes. Possible contributors include inflammation or infection that weakens the membranes, an over-stretched uterus from more than one baby or extra amniotic fluid, bleeding during pregnancy, cervical procedures, and a previous early rupture. In many pregnancies, no single trigger is found.

Contact your maternity unit promptly if you notice a gush or repeated trickle of clear, pinkish or unusual fluid that you cannot control. Note when it started, its colour and smell, use a clean sanitary pad rather than a tampon, and avoid sex until assessed. A clinician can check whether the fluid is amniotic fluid, review the baby's wellbeing and look for infection. Management depends on the pregnancy stage, contractions, infection signs and the baby's condition; it may include monitoring, medicines that support fetal lung preparation, or planning birth.

Seek immediate maternity assessment for suspected leaking fluid, especially before term. Go urgently if the fluid is green, brown, bloody or foul-smelling; you feel feverish or unwell; contractions or abdominal pain develop; the baby moves less than usual; or you feel or see anything in the vagina. Do not wait for regular contractions, because ruptured membranes can increase infection risk and, rarely, allow the umbilical cord to move below the baby.

Ask how the team will confirm membrane rupture, whether there are signs of infection, how the baby will be monitored, and which changes should bring you back immediately. You can also ask whether an antenatal steroid injection is suitable, what would prompt induction of labour, and whether you should avoid bathing, swimming, sex or travel while awaiting the next review.