What to Expect When Your Water Breaks
The moment your water breaks can be a very exciting time, but it can also be a little scary. Knowing what to expect can help ease your mind during this period. Take a look at this guide to learn more.
Signs Your Water Is Breaking
The most common sign is a gush or trickle of fluid from your vagina. This fluid is usually clear and odourless and can range from a few drops to a full gush.
Other signs that your water may be breaking include:
- A feeling of wetness in your vagina
- A constant trickle of fluid from your vagina
- Spontaneous release of amniotic fluid (SROM)
If your water breaks, you need to call your obstetrician immediately. They will likely want to check whether the fluid is amniotic fluid or something else. If it is indeed amniotic fluid, they may need to closely monitor you since your baby could come at any moment.
Water Breaking vs. Discharge
It can be difficult to know whether fluid leaking from your vagina is amniotic fluid or just normal vaginal discharge. During pregnancy, discharge is common and can vary in colour, smell and consistency.
Here are a few ways to tell the difference between water breaking and discharge:
- Water breaking typically has no odour, while discharge often has a smell
- Water breaking is generally clear, while discharge can be cloudy or bloody
- Water breaking occurs suddenly, while discharge gradually builds up over time
While you should call your obstetrician if you think your water broke, there is usually no need for medical attention with normal discharge. However, if you experience heavy bleeding with your discharge, contact your obstetrician right away.
What Happens if Your Water Breaks and You Aren't in Labor?
Labour contractions will start within a few hours after water breaks for most women. However, some women may go into labour naturally before their water breaks.
You can continue carrying your baby past the due date if your water breaks — even if you aren't in labour. But your obstetrician may advise against it since the risk of infection is high. Also, the baby may be at risk for other health problems.
If your water breaks but you're not in labour, you receive antibiotics to prevent infection. Your obstetrician will also need to monitor you closely for signs of labour. Your obstetrician may induce labour if you do not go into labour within a few hours of your water breaking. Assuming everything goes as planned, you will likely deliver your baby soon after your water breaks.
Water breaking is a sign that labour is imminent. Although the wait may be nerve-wracking, try to enjoy this special time — you're almost there!
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