Signs your waters may break soon

The waters can release as a sudden gush or as a slow, repeated trickle that you cannot control. The fluid is often watery and may continue when you change position, cough, or walk. Normal discharge can be thicker, and urine can smell differently, but it is not always easy to tell the difference at home. A mucus plug or increased discharge does not predict exactly when the membranes will rupture. Fluid loss before labour, especially before the expected stage of pregnancy, needs assessment.

Put on a clean maternity pad, note the colour and smell of the fluid, and contact your maternity unit for instructions. Do not use tampons or put anything into the vagina while waiting for advice. Avoid sex until a clinician has assessed the situation. Tell the team your pregnancy stage, whether contractions have started, and whether your baby’s movements have changed. A pad can help clinicians assess the fluid, but do not delay the call to collect a sample.

Seek urgent assessment for green or brown fluid, fresh bleeding, fever, severe abdominal pain, regular contractions, reduced baby movements, or feeling unwell. If the fluid loss happens before labour and early in pregnancy, it may be associated with Preterm Labour and requires prompt review. Emergency help is appropriate for severe pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or collapse. Do not wait for contractions before contacting maternity care after suspected rupture of membranes.

Ask how the team will confirm whether the membranes have ruptured, how to monitor temperature and movements, which activities to avoid, and when to return or call again.