Signs of Water Breaking During Pregnancy

A classic sign of labor is the breaking of the water membranes. This is not always traumatic and it does not always happen before labor starts. It is unusual to experience a gush when it breaks if you are standing or sitting up. The baby's head blocks the opening when the mother is in this position.

Smell

Sniff the wet spot that you think is amniotic fluid. It should smell sweet and not like ammonia.

Color

Amniotic fluid is clear though it can be light yellow.

Leakage

Amniotic fluid leaks continuously. It does not stop because it is constantly being renewed.

Pain

There is no pain associated with water breaking. It feels more like a water balloon popping.

Contractions

You may not feel contractions right away. Most women have contractions between 12 and 24 hours after their water breaks.

References

• What to Expect When You're Expecting, Arlene Eisenberg, 1996
• Medline Plus: Amniotic Fluid

Resources

• Baby Center