What To Do When The Water BreaksKnowing what to do when your water breaks is important. Being able to recognize the signs of your water breaking will help you decide on what actions to take. The water is enclosed in an amniotic sac and serves as a safety cushion for your baby. This fluid is colorless and odorless making it more difficult to recognize if it leaks. In most cases, rupture of membranes occurs after active labor has begun; chances are you may already be in the hospital when it happens. Statistics say that only 10% of women experience the rupture of membranes before labor starts. What are the signs of rupture that I should watch out for? In some cases, a pregnant woman may notice a gush of fluid when she stands up or walks. This is one sign that her bag of water has ruptured. The challenge of recognizing a rupture comes when instead of a gush of fluid; only a leak is noticed. Just to be sure, a pregnant woman should checkout for any excess moisture and should monitor the color and odor of the fluid. Note the time your water broke and the amount of fluid that was lost. Any colored, blood tinged or foul smelling fluid may indicate a problem. It is also necessary to check for any pain and cramps or the presence of contractions as this may indicate that labor has begun. Time the duration and interval of your contractions. Feeling pressure on the lower abdomen or if you feel the baby descend is already an emergency. Your health care provider should be contacted immediately. Read more of our articles on labor and delivery
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