When expecting a baby, one of the signs that signals labor is about to begin is the rupture of membranes, commonly known as your water breaking. It's a moment most pregnant women anticipate with a mix of excitement and anxiety. Understanding what it means and how to respond can help alleviate some of the uncertainty.
How Common is Water Breaking?
Water breaking is a natural part of the labor process. It’s also very exciting and nerve wrecking! For most women, it occurs spontaneously at term, after 37 weeks of gestation, known as spontaneous rupture of membranes (SROM). According to studies, approximately 8-10% of pregnant women experience SROM before labor begins. However, if the membranes rupture before 37 weeks, it is referred to as preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), which affects about 2% of pregnancies.
Causes of PROM and SROM
Several factors can contribute to both PROM and SROM. For SROM, natural hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing baby usually lead to the rupture. In contrast, PPROM can result from several causes, including:
Infections: Bacterial infections in the uterus can weaken the amniotic sac.
Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins or more can increase the risk due to added pressure.
Previous preterm birth: A history of preterm birth or PPROM can increase the likelihood in future pregnancies.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking or substance abuse can cause harm to amniotic fluid.
What to Do When Your Water Breaks
If your water ruptures:
Stay Calm: While it can be startling, staying calm is essential. Note the color and odor of the fluid, as this information can be valuable to your healthcare provider.
Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Whether you experience PPROM or SROM, inform your healthcare provider immediately. They will guide you on the next steps and may want you to come in so they can take a look!
Consider Waiting It Out at Home: If your water breaks and you are at term without immediate contractions, you might want to wait at home for a while. Discuss this option with your healthcare provider though. They will consider your specific circumstances, such as Group B strep status, before advising. Also having a doula is a great help, and a great option when choosing to labor on your own at home before going to the hospital.
Encouraging Labor to Start
If contractions don't start after your water has broken, that’s okay! There are a few methods that might help initiate labor, though they should be approached cautiously and with professional guidance:
Walking: Gentle walking can help the baby descend into the pelvis, stimulating contractions.
Nipple Stimulation: This can release oxytocin, a hormone that helps induce contractions. However, it should be done carefully and preferably under medical advice.
Relaxation Techniques: Stress can inhibit labor, so practices like deep breathing, prayer, softy music or a warm bath can promote relaxation and help labor start naturally.
Having sexual intercourse: Having sex can release oxytocin and possibly induce labor naturally or at the very least help you to have contractions.
Understanding the process and knowing your options can make the experience of your water breaking less daunting for you! And less stressful! Always prioritize safety and communicate with your healthcare provider , and doula if you have one, to support you and to ensure the best outcomes for both you and your baby.
Christina Lundy is a certified birth & postpartum doula, certified childbirth educator, doula trainer, and agency owner. She’s located in East Atlanta and serves all of Metro Atlanta. She has 5 kiddos, whom she loves dearly. When she isn’t busy with a client or newer doula, you can find her outside in her garden, painting, or reading. Check out her instagram here.
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