Labor and delivery (18)
- Episiotomy: When it's needed, when it's not
- Signs of labor: Know what to expect
- Water breaking: Understand this sign of labor
- see all in Labor and delivery
Postpartum care (14)
- Exercise after pregnancy: How to get started
- Maternity leave: Tips for returning to work
- C-section recovery: What to expect
- see all in Postpartum care
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Water breaking: Understand this sign of labor
Water breaking worries? Prepare yourself for childbirth by getting the facts about this important sign of labor.
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you're pregnant, you may be curious about your water breaking — when it will happen, what it will feel like and what to do next. Recognize the signs of water breaking and know what it means for the timeline of your baby's delivery.
What will happen when my water breaks?
During pregnancy, your baby is surrounded and cushioned by a fluid-filled membrane called the amniotic sac. Sometimes — but uncommonly — the sac leaks or breaks before labor begins. This is called premature rupture of membranes. If this happens, you may notice a continuous trickle of watery fluid from your vagina or, just like in the movies, a more obvious gush.
How can I be sure my water has broken?
It's not always easy to tell if your water has broken. For example, it may be difficult to tell the difference between amniotic fluid and urine — especially if you only notice a trickle of fluid. If you're uncertain whether your water has broken, consult your health care provider or head to your delivery facility right away. Be sure to note when you think your water may have broken and be prepared to describe any noticeable color or odor. You and your baby will be evaluated to determine the next steps.
Is there anything I need to avoid doing once my water has broken?
Don't do anything that could introduce bacteria into your vagina. Sex isn't a good idea if you think you might be leaking amniotic fluid. It's OK to take a shower after your water breaks — but your health care provider may recommend skipping it and heading straight to your delivery facility.
Next page(1 of 2)
- How to tell when labor begins. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp004.cfm. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Labor induction. American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp154.cfm. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Duff P. Preterm premature rupture of membranes. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Scorza WE. Management of premature rupture of the fetal membranes at or near term. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Labor and birth. The National Women's Health Information Center. http://womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/childbirth-beyond/labor-birth.cfm. Accessed Aug. 31, 2010.
- Inducing labor. March of Dimes. http://www.marchofdimes.com/pnhec/240_20202.asp. Accessed Sept. 7, 2010.
- Herbst A, et al. Time between membrane rupture and delivery and septicemia in term neonates. Obstetrics & Gynecology. 2007;110:612.
- What to expect after your due date. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp069.cfm. Accessed Sept. 14, 2010.
- Wing D. Induction of labor. http://www.uptodate/com/home/index.html. Accessed April 1, 2009.
- Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 16, 2010.
- Rohren CH (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 23, 2010.
- Murry MM (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 28, 2010.
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