This can happen all at once, or in small amounts over the course of weeks. When the cervix begins to dilate, the plug is pushed into the vagina. This is often called your mucous plug or “show” it is mucous that has accumulated normally at the cervix during pregnancy. Some women will notice thicker discharge that reminds them of mucous from the nose. This can happen several days before labor begins or at the onset of labor.
This increased discharge can be clear, pink or slightly bloody. Almost every woman develops a change in vaginal discharge in pregnancy. Very early rupture of membranes can lead to many complications and makes your pregnancy a high risk one, so it is important to tell your provider as soon as possible if you think that your water has broken.Īmniotic fluid isn’t the only thing that can cause that funny leaky feeling in pregnancy. It can even happen early in the pregnancy when the baby is very premature. It can happen during contractions or with no pain involved. This can happen as a slow trickle or a large gush. This is known as rupture of membranes (ROM). When your “water breaks” it is actually the membrane that ruptures causing the release of fluid out of your uterus though the cervix. There is a thick membrane that holds the amniotic fluid inside the uterus. He/she is cocooned in a warm water balloon of fluid that is safely confined in your uterus. Your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid. Typically there are many other symptoms that happen prior to that. In fact, fewer than 15 percent of women go into labor with their water breaking first. Then, as if on cue, her contraction pains start immediately and she is in full-blown labor by the time the car screeches to a stop in front of the hospital.ĭon’t get your hopes up, ladies, as this isn’t usually the case.
And then, without any warning, you hear the characteristic splash! A rush of clean, clear water has flooded her expensive shoes right in the middle of the street, restaurant or church. A very pregnant woman flawlessly dressed with perfect hair and makeup walks into the room.