Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 4/28/2025

Is Leaking Fluid Always a Sign of Labor Starting?

Leaking fluid doesn’t always mean labor is starting; sometimes it may be a small rupture of the membranes that doesn’t trigger active labor yet.

answer background

Explanation

When fluid leaks during pregnancy, it can be a sign that your protective amniotic sac is leaking, but this does not always mean that labor has begun. Sometimes, a small rupture in the membranes can cause a trickle or slight leak of fluid without the strong contractions or cervical changes needed for labor to start. This can happen in the weeks before labor or be an early sign of labor that still needs to undergo further stages. In other cases, very early fluid leakage might occur without any labor at all, and it is not uncommon to experience some fluid loss without progressing into labor immediately. Other factors, such as minor ruptures or even external pressures, can sometimes cause fluid to leak. It is important to watch for other signs of labor like regular contractions or significant changes in your body. If you experience fluid leakage at any time during pregnancy, it is best to contact your healthcare provider to determine whether it is a sign of labor or if it is something else that needs further evaluation.

(References)

  • Samartharam H, Ila SS, Vasudeva N. Vaginal Drain to Prevent Ascending Infection in Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes: A Novel Method. Cureus. 2023 Jul 20;15(7):e42204. doi: 10.7759/cureus.42204. PMID: 37609091; PMCID: PMC10441817.

  • Lipitz S, Grisaru D, Achiron R, Lidor A, Mashiach S, Schiff E. Pregnancy outcome after early amniotic fluid leakage after transabdominal multifetal reduction. Fertil Steril. 1996 May;65(5):1055-8. doi: 10.1016/s0015-0282(16)58287-9. PMID: 8612835.

  • Hadi HA, Hodson CA, Strickland D. Premature rupture of the membranes between 20 and 25 weeks' gestation: role of amniotic fluid volume in perinatal outcome. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1994 Apr;170(4):1139-44. doi: 10.1016/s0002-9378(94)70109-1. PMID: 8166198.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Sensation of water-breaking

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.