Contractions without your water breaking

Early labour contractions often become longer, stronger, and closer together, while practice tightenings may remain irregular and ease with rest or a change of activity. The waters may break before labour, during labour, or later. A small leak can be difficult to distinguish from urine or normal discharge, so uncertainty deserves advice.

If contractions occur before your expected term, they can be a sign of preterm labour and should be discussed promptly. Your maternity team can assess your cervix, the baby’s wellbeing, and whether the membranes are intact.

Time contractions from the start of one to the start of the next and record how long each lasts. Rest, drink fluids if you can, and keep your phone, transport plan, and maternity contact available. Use a pad for any fluid so you can note its colour and smell; do not insert anything into the vagina if you suspect your waters have broken.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for regular painful contractions, suspected fluid leakage, vaginal bleeding, reduced fetal movement, fever, severe constant pain, or contractions before term. Call emergency services if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, collapse, or feel unable to travel safely.

Ask how to time your contractions, what pattern should trigger a call, how to check movements, and where to go for assessment if your waters have not broken.