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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Are the Early Signs That My Water Might Be Breaking?

Early signs that your water might be breaking include a gentle leak of clear, watery fluid, a feeling of dampness, and sometimes mild cramping or pressure in your lower belly.

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Explanation

Some mothers notice small hints before their water fully breaks. One early sign is a slight, continuous leak of clear, watery fluid that feels warmer than other vaginal secretions. You might suddenly feel dampness on your underwear or see a few wet spots on your pad, which is different from thicker, regular discharge you might normally see. In addition, some women experience very mild cramps or a feeling of pressure in their lower belly, signaling that changes are occurring. Unlike strong, painful contractions, these sensations are usually gentle and may not immediately signal the start of real labor. Your body is simply showing signs that the protective amniotic sac is beginning to rupture, even if just a little bit. If you notice these early signs, it’s important to check in with your healthcare provider so they can assess whether it’s the first step toward labor and make sure everything is safe for both you and your baby.

(References)

  • Hutchison J, Mahdy H, Hutchison J. Stages of Labor. [Updated 2023 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

  • Mahdy H, Eruo FU. Amniotomy. [Updated 2023 Apr 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet].

  • Iams JD, Stilson R, Johnson FF, Williams RA, Rice R. Symptoms that precede preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of the membranes. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1990 Feb;162(2):486-90. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(90)90417-6. PMID: 2137968.

  • Iams JD, Stilson R, Johnson FF, Williams RA, Rice R. Symptoms that precede preterm labor and preterm premature rupture of the membranes. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1990 Feb;162(2):486-90. doi: 10.1016/0002-9378(90)90417-6. PMID: 2137968.

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