If your water breaks, what should you do?

Amniotic fluid may come as a sudden gush or a continuing leak. It is often difficult to distinguish from urine or discharge without an examination. Tell the maternity team how many weeks pregnant you are, when the leaking began, and whether the fluid is clear, coloured, or smelly. A suspected rupture before 37 weeks needs prompt review because it can be associated with preterm labour; see [Preterm Labour](/conditions/preterm-labour/).

Put on a clean maternity or sanitary pad and change it as needed. Do not use a tampon, douche, or insert medicines unless prescribed. Avoid sex until a clinician gives advice. Keep track of contractions and your baby’s usual movements. Have someone accompany you if possible, especially if travel is needed, and take your antenatal notes and medicines list.

Seek urgent maternity care for heavy bleeding, green or brown fluid, a fever, worsening illness, severe pain, reduced movements, regular strong contractions, or a cord or body part at the vaginal opening. Lie down and call emergency services if a cord is visible; do not push it back inside.

Ask how the rupture will be confirmed, whether you need monitoring or admission, how to check your temperature and movements, when you may eat or drink, and which changes mean you should return immediately.