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Published on: 4/28/2025

What Are the Symptoms That Indicate Water Breaking Might Happen Soon?

Before your water breaks, you might feel pressure in your lower belly, notice a gentle trickle of fluid, or experience light contractions.

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Explanation

Some women feel signs that their water might break soon even before it fully happens. You might feel more pressure or fullness in your lower belly and pelvic area, as if your body is getting ready for the baby. Another sign can be a small, gentle leak of clear, watery fluid that isn’t like the normal thicker or white discharge you might usually see. You might also have light, irregular contractions or a feeling of gentle cramping. These sensations can indicate that the amniotic sac is starting to thin or that small tears are happening. While every pregnancy is different, these early signs can be the body’s way of saying that labor is getting closer. If you feel any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can check your body and help you know if your water is about to break, so that you can get ready for the next steps in your labor and delivery process.

(References)

  • Ruamsap K, Panichkul P. The Effect of Early Versus Late Amniotomy on The Course of Labor. J Med Assoc Thai. 2017 Feb;100(2):125-32. PMID: 29916231.

  • Côrtes CT, Oliveira SMJV, Santos RCSD, Francisco AA, Riesco MLG, Shimoda GT. Implementation of evidence-based practices in normal delivery care. Rev Lat Am Enfermagem. 2018 Mar 8;26:e2988. doi: 10.1590/1518-8345.2177.2988. PMID: 29538583; PMCID: PMC5863276.

  • Mahdy H, Eruo FU. Amniotomy. [Updated 2023 Apr 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan.

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