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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Could Be Causing the Sensation That My Water Is about to Break?

The sensation that your water may be about to break can come from changes in your body, sometimes due to small leaks or early signs of labor, and even environmental factors like shifts in barometric pressure.

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Explanation

Many pregnant people report a feeling that their water is about to break even when it hasn’t fully happened yet. This sensation can be caused by the membranes around the baby starting to weaken or stretch. Sometimes, there might be a small leak of amniotic fluid that gives you a feeling of wetness or pressure change without a full burst. In some cases, mild contractions or pressure on the cervix can create a feeling similar to water breaking. Environmental factors, like changes in the weather or barometric pressure, have also been linked to early signs of labor and might contribute to this sensation. In addition, loose or thinning membranes may cause sensations similar to what you might expect when your water breaks. It is important to note that these symptoms can occur with normal pre-labor changes or with situations like preterm premature rupture of membranes. Always share any new or concerning symptoms with your healthcare provider so they can safely determine what is happening and provide the needed care.

(References)

  • Akutagawa O, Nishi H, Isaka K. Spontaneous delivery is related to barometric pressure. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2007 Apr;275(4):249-54. doi: 10.1007/s00404-006-0259-3. Epub 2006 Sep 27. PMID: 17004080.

  • Medina TM, Hill DA. Preterm premature rupture of membranes: diagnosis and management. _Am Fam Physician_. 2006;73(4):659-664.

  • Wheeler ML, Oyen ML. Premature Rupture of Membranes and Severe Weather Systems. Front Physiol. 2020 May 26;11:524. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00524. PMID: 32528315; PMCID: PMC7264092.

  • 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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