Pregnancy is an exciting time in the lives of expectant women. There is always something new to learn as the baby grows every day. As the baby grows, certain changes occur in the body, and many times, some of these changes can be unpleasant.
One such pregnancy change that is of great concern to pregnant women is leaking amniotic fluid. This condition can be an indication that you are going into labor or might be a sign of a potential complication.
Understanding the symptoms of leaking amniotic fluid and knowing what to do when such an occurrence happens will help keep you and your baby safe.
What is Amniotic Fluid?
Amniotic fluid is a clear to slightly yellowish liquid that surrounds the baby in the womb. The fluid-filled sac in which the baby grows during pregnancy is called the bag of waters or amniotic sac.
The amniotic fluid within the sac helps keep the baby warm and facilitates its movements while in the womb. This fluid also protects the baby from infections and provides cushioning while in the womb.
As pregnancy progresses, the bag of waters containing the amniotic fluid will fill with more fluid. This buildup of fluid within the membrane containing the baby continues until labor, when the membrane ruptures, allowing the baby to be delivered.
The membrane rupture causes the leaking of amniotic fluid and is most often referred to as the “breaking of water.” Sometimes, a woman may leak amniotic fluid before labor starts and the membrane has fully ruptured. Recognizing such symptoms in these situations is vital.
Symptoms of Leaking Amniotic Fluid
The major difference between amniotic fluid and other bodily fluids in a pregnant woman is the color, consistency, and quantity of the fluid. The following are some signs that a woman may be leaking amniotic fluid.
1. Continuous Leak
Amniotic fluid leakage will likely be a continuous flow of fluid as opposed to urine, which is usually intermittent. When you suspect you may be leaking amniotic fluid, check to see if the leakage is continuous.
2. Clear or Slightly Yellowish Fluid
The fluid you are leaking can also help confirm if it is amniotic fluid. If the fluid is clear or pale yellow, it is likely amniotic fluid. Greenish or brownish fluid is likely meconium, which is the baby’s first stool in the womb. This should be checked immediately, as meconium in the womb can lead to complications.
3. No Odor or Slightly Sweet Smell
If the leaking fluid has no odor or is slightly sweet-smelling, it may be amniotic fluid. Urine, on the other hand, has an odor, so it would not be amniotic fluid. If you notice the fluid is either odorless or sweet-smelling, it is most likely amniotic fluid.
4. Leaking During or After Exercise
If a woman feels a leakage of fluid after physical activity such as standing up from a sitting position or laughing, the fluid could be amniotic fluid. This is not the case with urine, which would be triggered by such activities.
5. A Small Amount of Fluid
Women can also experience leaking amniotic fluid in small amounts. If you feel that you are leaking a small amount of fluid and need to use a pad to absorb it, it may be amniotic fluid. This kind of leak is referred to as a slow leak, which happens when the amniotic sac tears but does not break or open completely.
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6. Cervical Dilation
If you are close to your delivery date and have begun to dilate, fluid leakage may indicate that your waters have broken, even with a trickle.
7. Warmth
If a woman feels that the fluid is warm as it leaks, it could be amniotic fluid.
Tests to Confirm Leaking of Amniotic Fluid
If you suspect that you are leaking amniotic fluid, the following tests can be done to determine whether it is amniotic fluid or another fluid:
Visual Inspection
The physical examination of a woman suspected of leaking amniotic fluid includes a visual inspection. The doctor will check for cervical dilation and any fluid leaks. The doctor will also determine if there is a continuous flow of fluid or if the leakage has stopped.
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Testing the pH
Amniotic fluid has a pH of about 7.0 or slightly higher, while urine has a lower pH of less than 7.0. A sample of the leaking fluid can be taken and tested for pH to determine if it is amniotic fluid.
Leukocyte Esterase
Testing the leaking fluid for leukocyte esterase (white blood cells) can also be done. If leukocyte esterase is present, this may indicate that the woman has an infection.
Nitrazine Test
Nitrazine paper is used to check the pH of the fluid. A higher pH level indicates that the fluid is amniotic fluid, while a lower pH level indicates urine.
Fern Test
The Fern test checks the presence of amniotic fluid by examining the fluid under a microscope. If the fluid contains amniotic fluid, it will create a fern-like pattern when dried.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound can be used to check the baby’s position and the level of amniotic fluid in the womb.
AmniSure
AmniSure is a rapid diagnostic test that can be used to check if a woman is leaking amniotic fluid. It takes about 10 minutes to get results.
What to Do if You Think You Are Leaking Amniotic Fluid
The moment a woman suspects she is leaking amniotic fluid, the following should be done quickly for the sake of both the baby’s and mother’s health.
Call Your Healthcare Provider
When you suspect that you are leaking amniotic fluid, you should call your healthcare provider and tell them what is happening. The healthcare provider will then ask you necessary questions before advising you to go to the clinic or hospital for a check-up.
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Monitor the Fluid Leak
Monitoring the leaking fluid may help provide important information to the doctor. You can use a clean pad or piece of cloth to absorb the leaking fluid and keep track of how much is leaking.
Go to the Hospital or Clinic
If your healthcare provider instructs you to go to the hospital or clinic, it is important to do so. You will be asked to provide a sample of the leaking fluid for testing. The doctor may also conduct an ultrasound and other tests to check the baby’s position and the amniotic fluid level.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
When the amniotic fluid is leaking, there is a risk of dehydration due to the loss of body fluids. It is advised that you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Water is especially important to replenish your fluids.
Do Not Insert Anything Into the Vagina
If you suspect leaking amniotic fluid, it is not advised to use tampons or insert anything into the vagina. Tampons may cause infection by introducing bacteria into the uterus, which can affect both the baby and mother.
Avoid Sexual Activity
Sexual activity should be avoided until after the doctor has examined the woman. This helps keep both the baby and mother safe. Avoiding sex lowers the risk of infection and other complications.
Lie Down and Rest
It is also important for a woman to lie down and rest if she suspects leaking amniotic fluid until the doctor has examined her. Resting helps reduce the risk of infection and other issues.
Monitor for Contractions
In some cases, leaking amniotic fluid may lead to early labor. In such cases, you should keep track of any contractions that may occur. If you notice that the contractions are becoming regular or more intense, you should call your healthcare provider immediately.
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When to Go to the Hospital if You Think You Are Leaking Amniotic Fluid
There are also certain symptoms and signs that require a hospital visit if you are leaking amniotic fluid. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it is recommended to go to the hospital immediately:
Heavy Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding along with leaking amniotic fluid, you should go to the hospital immediately. This could be a sign of placental abruption or other serious conditions.
Fever: A fever can indicate an infection and may be harmful to both the baby and mother. You should call your healthcare provider or go to the hospital immediately if you have a fever.
Foul-Smelling Fluid: If the leaking fluid has a foul smell, it could indicate an infection. Seek medical attention immediately.
Loss of Baby Movement: If you notice a decrease in the baby’s movement after fluid leakage, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Premature Labor: If the mother is less than 37 weeks pregnant and experiences signs of labor, such as contractions, lower abdominal pressure, or backache, she should go to the hospital immediately.
Related: How to Manage Labour Pains
Potential Risks of Leaking Amniotic Fluid
If amniotic fluid is leaking too early, there are potential risks for both the baby and mother. These include:
Infection: A break or rupture of the amniotic sac increases the risk of infection. Bacteria may enter the uterus and cause infection, which can affect both the baby and mother.
Premature Labor: Leaking amniotic fluid can cause early labor. Premature birth can lead to complications for the baby, such as breathing problems, feeding issues, and other health concerns.
Cord Prolapse: If the sac ruptures before labor, the umbilical cord may slip through the cervix into the birth canal, which can be dangerous for the baby.
Low Amniotic Fluid: Loss of too much amniotic fluid can leave the baby with insufficient cushioning and protection.
The Bottom Line
Leaking amniotic fluid can be a sign that a woman is going into labor. However, there are symptoms that may indicate a possible problem.
It is important for a woman to know the symptoms of leaking amniotic fluid and what to do in such a case. Understanding the symptoms and the next steps will help keep both mother and baby safe.
If you suspect that you are leaking amniotic fluid, contact your healthcare provider. With the right attention, most cases can be managed without complications. Take action as soon as you notice any symptoms of leaking amniotic fluid.
