Overview
Fluid may gush or trickle. Infection risk rises the longer the water is broken.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Fluid leaking from the vagina in pregnancy
Less common
- Fever
Look up a symptom: Pregnant or recently gave birth
When to get medical care
Call 911Heavy bleeding, severe belly pain, a seizure, or fluid that's green or brown with fewer baby movements: call 911 or go to labor and delivery.
Get care todayAny fluid leaking, especially before 37 weeks.
See a doctor soonQuestions about leaking or wetness late in pregnancy.
Causes
Many causes.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Infection
- Smoking
Possible complications
Diagnosis
Your team tests the fluid.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Fluid test:
- Ultrasound:
Treatment
Go in.
Self-care
- Wear a pad, not a tampon
- Don't have sex or take baths
- Note the time and color of the fluid
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Treat infections in pregnancy
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Before 37 weeks: Hospital care is needed.
Outlook
Care improves outcomes.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
Questions to ask
- Will labor be induced?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Water breaking early (rupture of membranes)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.