What to Do If Your Water Breaks Before Labor Starts
By Kristen Barak-Park, CNM, MS | Namu Birth Services
You’re pregnant, near the finish line, and suddenly—gush. Or maybe just a slow trickle. You realize: My water just broke… but I’m not having contractions yet. So, what now?
If you’re like many expectant parents, this moment brings a wave of adrenaline and questions. Here’s what you need to know (and do) if your water breaks before labor starts.
First, Is It Really Your Water That Broke?
Sometimes it’s not as dramatic as the movies. You might feel a big gush, a steady leak, or just dampness you’re unsure about.
Signs your water broke:
A sudden gush or ongoing trickle of clear, pale yellow, or slightly pink fluid
Fluid that doesn’t stop when you change positions or use the restroom
It’s odorless or mildly sweet-smelling (not like urine)
If you're unsure, wear a pad (not a tampon) and check after 30-60 minutes. Still unsure? Give your provider a call. We often have ways to test whether it’s amniotic fluid.
Step-by-Step: What to Do When Your Water Breaks Before Labor
1. Take Note of the Time and Color
When your water breaks, note:
Time: Hospitals often recommend giving birth within 24 hours of rupture to reduce infection risk.
Color: Clear or pale is normal. Green, brown, or cloudy fluid can indicate meconium (baby’s first poop), which may need closer monitoring.
Amount & odor: Was it a gush or trickle? Was there a foul smell? These help your provider assess next steps.
2. Avoid Vaginal Exams at Home
Even though you may be curious, it’s best to avoid checking your cervix or having intercourse after your water breaks. This reduces the risk of introducing infection.
3. Put on a Pad and Stay Calm
A clean pad can help you monitor how much you’re leaking. This is also helpful if you’re headed in for an evaluation. And remember: Many people go into labor within 12-24 hours after their water breaks.
4. Call Your Midwife or OB-GYN
Even if you’re not having contractions yet, always notify your provider when your water breaks. They’ll walk you through your options based on your health, your baby’s gestational age, and how things look.
Should You Go to the Hospital Right Away?
This depends on your individual situation and care provider. Some hospitals or providers encourage immediate evaluation. Others may offer a short window to wait at home and see if contractions start on their own, especially if:
You’re Group B Strep (GBS) negative
The fluid is clear
You and baby are otherwise healthy
If you’re GBS positive or you’re feeling reduced fetal movement, heading in sooner is usually best.
Can I Wait for Labor to Start Naturally?
Yes, in many cases. Studies suggest that many people go into labor within 12 hours of PROM. Providers may give you:
Up to 24 hours to begin labor on your own
Guidance on when to come in for induction if contractions don’t start
Antibiotics (especially if GBS+ or if labor hasn’t started within a certain timeframe)
This is called “expectant management” and it can be a safe, supported option depending on your medical picture.
When to Head to the Hospital Immediately
Go in right away if you notice:
Fever or chills
Foul-smelling fluid
Green, brown, or bloody fluid
Decreased fetal movement
Heavy bleeding
Intense or constant abdominal pain
You’re earlier than 37 weeks
Bottom Line: Trust Your Gut and Call Your Provider
If your water breaks before contractions begin, you have time to gather yourself and make a plan with your provider. Whether your birth is in a few hours or the next day, you are not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong.
Namu Birth Services offers one-on-one childbirth education and birth prep rooted in clinical expertise and tailored guidance. We’ll cover situations like this and many others so you know exactly what to expect, how to advocate for yourself, and what questions to ask—whether your birth goes “by the book” or not.
Want to feel confident and calm going into labor—whatever happens?
Explore my childbirth education packages and schedule a free consultation today.