If my water breaks, am I in labour?

The waters are the fluid-filled membranes around the baby. A sudden gush or a slow, continuing trickle can mean the membranes have ruptured. Contractions may begin before or after the fluid appears. Urine or normal discharge can feel similar, so a maternity professional may need to confirm the source. The timing of the pregnancy matters because fluid loss before term can be preterm labour and requires urgent assessment.

Note when the fluid started, its colour and smell, and whether it keeps leaking. Wear a clean maternity pad, avoid tampons and vaginal sex, and call your maternity unit or obstetric team for instructions. Keep your antenatal records available and follow the advice about coming in for examination. Do not wait for contractions before making contact.

Seek urgent maternity assessment for green or brown fluid, fresh bleeding, fever, feeling unwell, severe abdominal pain, reduced baby movements, or regular painful contractions. Contact the maternity team immediately if the pregnancy is preterm, because preterm labour needs prompt care.

Ask how the fluid will be checked, whether you should monitor contractions or movements, when to attend the unit, and what warning signs should prompt emergency help.