You're in the final weeks of pregnancy, probably wondering when labour will finally begin. Then suddenly, you feel a gush or maybe just a small trickle and the first thought is:

“Did my water just break?”

It can feel confusing, especially if this is your first baby. You may immediately start wondering what to do, whether labour has started and whether you should head to the hospital.

Let's break it down simply.

During pregnancy, your baby is surrounded by a fluid-filled sac called the amniotic sac. When this sac breaks, the fluid leaks out through the vagina. This is commonly called your water breaking or rupture of membranes.

It doesn't always happen as a dramatic gush like you see in movies. Sometimes it can feel like a slow trickle or continued leaking of fluid.

If you think your water has broken, contact your doctor or maternity unit for advice, even if you aren't having contractions yet.

Not necessarily.

For many women, labour begins naturally after their water breaks. However, the timing can vary.

If labour doesn't begin on its own, your healthcare provider may discuss the next steps with you. This is because the longer the membranes remain ruptured, the greater the risk of infection.

If your water breaks before 37 weeks, contact your healthcare provider immediately because this can be a sign of preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) and needs medical assessment.

Contact your maternity unit or healthcare provider immediately if your water breaks and you notice:

• Green, brown or unusual-looking fluid
  
• Heavy vaginal bleeding
  
• Reduced or changed baby movements
  
• Fever or feeling unwell
  
• Severe abdominal pain
  
• You are less than 37 weeks pregnant
  
• Anything else that concerns you
  

If you're unsure whether your water has actually broken, it's still better to call and ask.

Even after your water breaks, you should continue paying attention to your baby's movements.

If your baby's movements are noticeably reduced or different from their usual pattern, contact your maternity team immediately.

Don't wait until your next appointment to mention it.

The most important thing is to contact your healthcare provider or maternity unit and follow their instructions. Labour may begin soon, or your medical team may recommend monitoring or further steps depending on your situation.

Most importantly, don't panic.

Your water breaking is one of those moments when pregnancy suddenly feels very real. Take a breath, call your doctor, grab your hospital bag and focus on what's ahead.

Your baby might be meeting you very soon.