What if my waters break during pregnancy?

The membranes around the baby can release fluid as a gush or as a slow, continuing trickle. Amniotic fluid is often clear or pale, but fluid can be difficult to distinguish from urine or vaginal discharge at home. The amount and whether contractions are present do not reliably show how urgent the situation is.

When the membranes rupture before labour, the maternity team may need to check you, the baby, the fluid, and whether labour or infection is developing. If this happens before labour is expected, it can be associated with preterm labour and needs prompt assessment; read about [Preterm Labour](/conditions/preterm-labour/).

Put on a clean maternity pad, note the time, colour, smell, and amount, and call your maternity unit. Do not use a tampon, have sex, or put anything into the vagina while waiting for instructions. Take your pregnancy notes if you are asked to attend, and do not drive if you feel unwell.

Seek emergency maternity help for green or bloody fluid, fever, severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, faintness, regular contractions, or reduced fetal movement. If you can see or feel something protruding from the vagina, call emergency services and lie on your side while waiting for help.

Ask how the fluid will be confirmed, whether you need monitoring or admission, which signs suggest infection or labour, and what activity and bathing advice applies while your membranes are ruptured.