Usually when your “water breaks” or rupture of the membrane containing the amniotic fluid, labor will soon follow. If your water breaks before labor begins, it is called premature rupture of membranes. This happens in about 1 out of 10 pregnancies. You need to contact your physician immediately if you suspect that you may be leaking amniotic fluid. Your health care provider will test to see if it is amniotic fluid or discharge for other reasons. Premature rupture of membranes may occur due to infection, bleeding, or umbilical cord problems. Your doctor will decide if to induce labor if necessary for the health of you and/ or baby.

If the premature rupture of membranes happens before 37 weeks, it is called preterm premature rupture of membranes. The physician may try to hold off labor until the baby is more developed if possible. You will need to rest and stay in the hospital to be watched for signs of infection, labor, or signs that the baby’s cord is being compressed. You may be given fluids and medications like antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection or corticosteroids to help the baby’s lungs mature faster. Call your doctor immediately if you think your bag of water breaks or rupture of the membranes.