Waters breaking at 35 weeks

At 35 weeks, a gush or trickle may be amniotic fluid, urine or discharge, and the source may need examination. If the membranes have ruptured before labour, the team will check you and your baby's wellbeing, look for infection and discuss whether monitoring or birth planning is appropriate. Contractions can start later, but their absence does not remove the need for review. Fluid can continue to leak after the first episode.

Use a clean pad and note the time, colour, smell and amount of fluid. Do not use a tampon, have sex or place anything in the vagina. Take your maternity records and contact the labour ward or maternity triage now. Pay attention to fetal movement and tell the team if it changes. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, unwell or have severe pain.

Call urgently for green or brown fluid, heavy bleeding, fever, chills, worsening abdominal pain, regular contractions or reduced fetal movement. Emergency help is needed for collapse, severe breathlessness or heavy bleeding. A rupture at this stage can be associated with preterm labour, so follow the hospital's instructions about observation, treatment and timing of birth.

Ask how the membranes will be checked, what monitoring your baby needs and which signs indicate infection or labour. Clarify where to stay, how activity and bathing should be handled, and what the plan is if leaking continues without contractions.