Reason for water break during pregnancy

Amniotic fluid may come as a sudden gush or a continuing trickle that is difficult to control. It can be confused with urine or ordinary vaginal discharge. The membranes may open after contractions start, or before contractions begin. When this happens before labour, it can be associated with Preterm Labour if the pregnancy is not yet near its expected time, and it may increase the need for infection monitoring.

Call your maternity unit or obstetric team as soon as you think your waters have broken, even if the fluid is only leaking. Note when it began, its colour and smell, and whether contractions or reduced baby movement are present. Wear a pad rather than using a tampon, and avoid putting anything in the vagina until you have received advice. The maternity team may examine you and check the baby's wellbeing.

Go to urgent maternity care for green or brown fluid, fresh bleeding, fever, severe abdominal pain, regular contractions, reduced baby movement, or feeling unwell. Treat a suspected water break before the expected time as urgent, even without contractions.

Could this fluid be amniotic fluid? What signs of infection or labour should I watch for? Should I come in now, and how should I monitor my baby's movements?