When the amniotic sac surrounding a developing baby ruptures, it is commonly referred to as a pregnant person’s “water breaking.” This event, known medically as the rupture of membranes (ROM), releases the protective amniotic fluid from the uterus, signaling that labor is either about to begin or has already started. Knowing the immediate steps to take is important for the health and safety of both the parent and the baby. The fluid leakage can range from a sudden, noticeable gush to a slow, continuous trickle, which often creates uncertainty about whether the membranes have truly broken.
How to Confirm If Your Water Has Broken
Distinguishing amniotic fluid from other common pregnancy-related leaks, such as urine or increased vaginal discharge, is often the first challenge. Amniotic fluid is typically a thin, watery liquid that is clear or a pale, straw-yellow color. It may also contain white flecks of mucus or traces of blood, often described as a pink tinge.
One of the most reliable indicators is the fluid’s smell; amniotic fluid is usually odorless or has a faintly sweet or musky smell, unlike urine, which carries a distinct ammonia scent. True amniotic fluid leakage will continue as a trickle or a gush that cannot be physically stopped or controlled. Vaginal discharge is generally thicker and more milky, and urine leakage is typically intermittent, often occurring with sudden movements like a cough or sneeze. If there is any doubt about the source of the fluid, contact a healthcare provider for confirmation, as they can perform a simple test on a fluid sample.
Essential Steps Immediately After Rupture
Once the rupture of membranes is suspected, note the exact time the fluid leakage began, as this information is important for managing the risk of infection. The amount and color of the fluid should also be immediately observed and reported to the medical team. Wearing a sanitary pad, rather than a tampon, can help absorb the fluid and aid in assessing its characteristics.
The next step is to call a healthcare provider, such as an obstetrician or midwife, or the labor and delivery unit. The medical team will provide specific instructions on when to come in, which may depend on the stage of the pregnancy and whether contractions have started. It is recommended to avoid sexual intercourse and the use of tampons after the water breaks, as this can increase the potential for infection.
While waiting for instructions, maintaining good hygiene is important, and a shower or bath using plain water is generally safe. Expectant parents should continue to monitor the baby’s movements and take their temperature every four hours while awake. Contact the medical team if the temperature rises above 37.5 degrees Celsius (99.5 degrees Fahrenheit), which can be an early sign of infection. Ensure that the packed hospital bag is easily accessible for a smooth departure.
Recognizing Signs That Require Emergency Care
While most instances of water breaking lead to a standard labor process, certain signs require bypassing the standard call to the provider and heading straight to emergency care. One immediate danger sign is the presence of a green or brown color in the amniotic fluid, which may indicate meconium, the baby’s first stool. Meconium staining suggests that the baby may have experienced stress and requires urgent monitoring and intervention to prevent aspiration following delivery.
Another emergency occurs if the umbilical cord is visible at the vaginal opening or can be felt in the vagina; this is known as a prolapsed cord. A prolapsed cord is life-threatening because the cord can be compressed, cutting off the oxygen and blood supply to the baby. If this occurs, immediately get into a position that takes pressure off the cord, such as lying down with the hips elevated, and seek emergency medical services. Excessive vaginal bleeding heavier than simple spotting also constitutes a medical emergency, as it can indicate a placental complication. Any sudden, significant decrease in the baby’s movement or the onset of a fever or chills after the water breaks should prompt an immediate trip to the hospital.