Signs & Symptoms of Water Breaking While Pregnant

Hey there, expecting mamas (and curious dads) – let’s talk about the moment we’ve all been waiting for: your water breaking. Yes, that mythical moment that we see in movies where a pregnant woman’s water suddenly gushes out, causing a flurry of activity and panic.

While the reality of water breaking is not always so dramatic, it is still an important sign that your little one is on their way. So, what exactly are the signs and symptoms of water breaking? Is it just a big gush of fluid, or are there more subtle indicators?

In this article, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about water breaking – from how to differentiate it from other fluids, to what to do once it happens. So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this exciting (and sometimes messy) milestone in pregnancy!

Water Breaking Signs That You Should Know

You may have heard about ‘water breaking’ during pregnancy, but in reality, only 15 per cent women may actually experience their water breaking before they go into labour and out of those women, only 1 in 10 women may feel liquid gushing out. But you may not know which category you may fall in. So, here are some signs of water breaking that you should know about:

1. The Bloody Show

The name may scare you, but as your delivery nears, you may lose your mucus plug that seals your cervix by making you ready for the upcoming labour. Sometimes losing a mucus plug and the breaking of water may happen side by side, while sometimes, you may lose mucus plug, but your water may not break immediately or it may not happen at all. Whatever be the case, once you lose your mucus plug, you should get the hint that your water can break anytime.

2. Infections

Sometimes infections in your vagina, cervix, kidney or bladder may make your water break. However, this could prove to be harmful for you and your baby. In case you feel any signs of fever, flu-like symptoms, back pain or other such symptoms, seek doctor’s help because you may have an infection ‘down there’, which could cause your water to break.

3. Frequent Toilet Visits

As you near your labour, your body releases prostaglandins, which help in labour. But this hormone-like substance may excessively stimulate your bowels, making your bathroom visits frequent. This is an indication that you are in early labour and that your water may break anytime, so be prepared.

4. Hind-water Breaking

Before your actual water or fore water breaks, some hind water may leak from a hole in the sac behind the baby’s head. Hind water breakage will seem more like a dribble and may stop on its own when the membranes reseal it.

5. Cramps

Your tummy may feel all tight and churned up, similar to what you experience before periods. Though these may not be the actual contractions, however, this cramping may be an indication that your water may break anytime soon. So, grab a plastic sheet or a towel and prepare yourself.

6. A Popping Sound

When the sac of fluid around the baby ruptures, you might hear a popping sound. It may feel more like the crackling of bones or popping of a balloon wrapped up in a towel, but you will hear that popping sound. After that, there may be a sudden gush of warm water between your legs.

7. Urinary Incontinence

Towards the end of the pregnancy, the excess pressure on your bladder may result in urine leakage. It may happen while coughing, laughing, or due to other such activities that put pressure on the bladder. However, the smell of urine and amniotic water is different. Amniotic water is pale or light yellowish in colour with no odour contrary to urine, which has a distinctive smell. If you are leaking odourless liquid, it is your amniotic water.

8. Trickling Sensation

You may sometimes feel a trickling sensation when liquid leaks out from your vagina. You may mistake it for urine and think that amniotic fluid usually comes gushing. But that is not true, amniotic fluid may sometimes come slowly, and in case you are confused about the liquid that you may be leaking, you should consult your doctor.

9. Excessive Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge increases during pregnancy, which is very normal. But if you have a stringy and clear vaginal discharge, it may be the cervical mucus. If you have excessive vaginal discharge, it is a sign of water breaking.

10. A change in the color of the fluid

Your amniotic fluid should be clear or slightly yellow. If it’s green or brown, it could be a sign that your baby has had a bowel movement in utero, which can be dangerous.

If your amniotic fluid has a sweet smell, it could be a sign of high blood sugar levels in your baby, which can lead to complications during delivery. On the other hand, a foul odor can indicate an infection, which can be dangerous for both you and your baby. If you notice any changes in the smell of your amniotic fluid, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider right away to ensure the safety of you and your baby.

11. Flu-like symptoms

Some women experience flu-like symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, in the days leading up to labor. This is a sign that your body is preparing for childbirth.

These symptoms can include not only nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but also fatigue, body aches, and even a low-grade fever. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are a normal part of the labor process and should not be a cause for concern. If you’re experiencing severe or persistent symptoms, however, be sure to contact your healthcare provider.

12. Intuition

Finally, trust your gut. Many women report just “knowing” that their water has broken and that it’s time to go to the hospital. If you have a feeling that something is off, don’t hesitate to call your healthcare provider.

FAQs

1. How Do You Know If Its Your Water Broke Or Its Discharge?

If you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy, you may be wondering how to tell the difference between your water breaking and regular discharge. While both can be watery and sometimes even colorless, there are some key differences to look out for. Signs that water is about to break during pregnancy can include a sudden gush of fluid, a constant trickle of fluid, and a change in the color or smell of the fluid. On the other hand, discharge is typically very thin and watery and may have a slight odor, but it should not be accompanied by contractions or other signs of labor. If you’re unsure whether your water has broken or if you’re experiencing unusual discharge, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

2. How Much Water Flows Out When Your Water Breaks?

When it comes to how much water flows out when your water breaks, it can vary from woman to woman. Some women may experience a sudden gush of fluid, while others may notice a constant trickle of fluid. However, on average, about a pint (or 500ml) of amniotic fluid is released when your water breaks. While this may sound like a lot, it’s important to remember that your body will continue to produce more amniotic fluid throughout labor, so there should always be enough to cushion and protect your baby. To prepare for the possibility of your water breaking, consider keeping a towel or extra pair of pants in your bag just in case, and don’t be afraid to ask for help cleaning up if you need it. 

The above-mentioned are some common signs and symptoms of water breaking. Look out for these signs that water is about to break in pregnancy but don’t stress yourself worrying about when your water will break. Your body will signal you when it is ready to go into labour. You may rely on your gut and recognise the symptoms that your body may exhibit to you. If you think that what you may be leaking is amniotic fluid, it is advised that you get immediate medical assistance.

Also Read: How to Increase and Decrease Amniotic Fluid during Pregnancy Naturally