What should you know about labour pain water break?

Labour contractions usually build, peak and ease, with tightening across the abdomen or pain in the back and pelvis. Unlike irregular tightening, established labour tends to become more regular and stronger. A water break may feel like a gush or a continuing trickle that you cannot control. Fluid is often clear or pale, but its colour and smell matter.

The waters can break before contractions begin, during labour or before the expected time of birth. Leaking fluid before the expected time can be a sign of preterm labour and requires prompt assessment; see Preterm Labour for more information. Urine and vaginal discharge can feel similar, so do not rely on appearance alone.

Note when the leaking started, how much fluid there is, its colour and whether it has an unusual smell. Use a clean sanitary pad rather than a tampon, and contact your maternity unit for instructions. Avoid putting anything into the vagina until you have been assessed. Keep track of contractions and your baby’s movements.

Rest in a safe position while arranging advice, and take your pregnancy records with you if asked to attend. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, have severe pain or are bleeding. Your team may check whether the membranes have ruptured and decide how to monitor you and the baby.

Contact maternity care immediately for green, brown or bloody fluid, heavy bleeding, fever, severe or constant pain, reduced baby movements, a feeling that something is coming through the vagina, or contractions that are rapidly intensifying. A fluid leak before the expected time of birth is urgent even when pain is mild. Call emergency services if you have collapse, severe breathing difficulty or heavy bleeding.

Ask how your unit confirms a water break, which activities are safe while waiting, how to monitor movements and contractions, and which symptoms require immediate return after assessment.