Published on: 4/28/2025
Water breaking usually feels like a sudden gush or steady trickle of fluid, which is different from the slow, tight feeling of Braxton Hicks contractions or other bodily fluids.
Water breaking happens when the thin fluid that surrounds a baby in the womb bursts. You might feel a quick wetness, like a sudden gush of water, or a continuous trickle. This is different from Braxton Hicks contractions, which feel like your belly is tightening and then relaxing. Other sensations such as sweating or urine leakage usually build up slowly or occur with pressure, not all at once. Here are some ways to tell the difference:
If you notice a sudden release of a lot of fluid or a constant trickle, it is important to talk with a healthcare provider to safely check if your water has broken. This information is educational, and a provider’s evaluation is always recommended.
(References)
Raines DA, Cooper DB. Braxton Hicks Contractions. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
Dayal S, Jenkins SM, Hong PL. Preterm and Term Prelabor Rupture of Membranes (PPROM and PROM) [Updated 2024 Oct 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet].
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