Baby Feeding
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The amniotic sac is a real shield for your baby, protecting them from external infections. At the end of pregnancy, it may sometimes start to leak. How can you recognize a leaking amniotic sac, and what should you do once you’ve identified it? May sheds some light on the matter.
What are the symptoms of a leaking amniotic sac?
A leaking amniotic sac, as the name suggests, involves the discharge of amniotic fluid. It is not accompanied by other symptoms. It differs from a full rupture, which results in a large loss of amniotic fluid. In the case of a leak, the flow is lighter.
The amniotic sac most often breaks during labor, due to the effect of contractions.
How do I know if my water has broken?
A leaking amniotic sac can sometimes be hard to identify because it may be confused with vaginal discharge at the end of pregnancy.
To recognize it, pay attention to the appearance of the discharge: amniotic fluid looks like water. It has no odor or color. The leakage may not be continuous, but it cannot be held back and won’t stop until the baby is born.
The quantity of fluid varies: it may be a drip or a more abundant flow. The flow may increase when you move or when your baby moves. You may then feel a constant sensation of dampness in your underwear.
Other discharges that may occur at the end of pregnancy have different characteristics. For example:
- Vaginal discharge is white, thicker, and occasional (if it smells bad, you should consult a healthcare provider).
- Urine leaks, on the other hand, are more or less yellow and smell like urine. They are occasional and occur in small amounts.
- Finally, the mucus plug is sticky, gelatinous, beige, brownish, or pink. The loss of the mucus plug can happen at any time late in pregnancy.
If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to ask your midwife or go to the maternity emergency department.
Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your pregnancy.
What complications can arise from a leaking amniotic sac?
Sometimes, the amniotic sac may leak prematurely during pregnancy, increasing the risk of preterm labor, often due to an infection (mainly from Group B streptococcus), caused by a bacterium commonly found in the intestinal or vaginal flora. Since the baby is no longer protected from the outside world by the amniotic sac, they can be exposed to infection.
At term (from 37 weeks of gestation), if the sac has broken but labor contractions haven’t started, labor will need to be induced to avoid the risk of infection.
What happens if the amniotic sac is leaking?
If you suspect a leak in the sac, go straight to the maternity emergency room.
If you are under 37 weeks, if the fluid is green, and/or if labor has already begun, head to the maternity ward immediately!
Green fluid is meconium-stained fluid. Meconium is the baby’s first stool. Normally, it is passed after birth, but it can also be released into the amniotic fluid before or during birth. This requires close monitoring of the fetus to ensure everything is okay.
However, if you are over 37 weeks, there is less urgency: it’s recommended to go to the maternity ward within one to two hours.
An examination will be done to confirm whether it’s truly amniotic fluid, and your care will depend on your gestational age and overall situation.
If you are full-term, you will remain at the hospital until labor begins, either spontaneously or through induction if it takes too long. If the leaking sac poses a risk of premature delivery, the medical team will assess the situation to determine the best course of action for both you and your baby.
Do all cases of a leaking amniotic sac require hospitalization?
Yes, a leaking amniotic sac requires you to go to the maternity ward because your baby is no longer protected and delivery is approaching! If it is indeed a leak, there is a high chance you will need to be hospitalized, regardless of how far along you are.
In very rare cases where the membrane opens well before the due date, both mother and baby are closely monitored, and antibiotics are given to help the baby stay inside as long as possible.
When should you consult a professional if you suspect a leak in the amniotic sac?
To repeat ourselves: go to the maternity emergency room as soon as you suspect a leak, even if you’re unsure. Better safe than sorry.
Reminder: it’s very helpful to know the difference between a leaking amniotic sac, vaginal discharge, and urine leaks as explained earlier.
As you’ve probably gathered, a rupture of the amniotic sac — even a small leak — is a big event! We hope this article has helped you understand how to respond appropriately.
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Photo: Envato
This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May ES/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.
