Did Your Water Break? 9 Things You Need to Know
2.When Your Water Breaks, It Means Labor Is Coming. But for most women, labor doesn't start right away. On average, labor starts within 12 to 24 hours of the water breaking. For first-time moms, it may take a bit longer.
3.Your Baby Is Still Protected. Once your water breaks, your baby is surrounded by a thick, slippery substance called vernix caseosa, which helps to cushion and protect them from the outside world.
4.You May Need to Be Monitored. If your water breaks before your due date, you'll likely be monitored closely to make sure you and your baby are doing well. This may involve:
- Tracking your baby’s heart rate
- Checking for signs of infection
- Watching for labor to start
5.You'll Need to Be in a Hospital. If your water breaks at home, you'll need to go to the hospital as soon as possible.
6.Don't Take a Bath. Taking a bath or going swimming could introduce bacteria into your vagina and increase your risk of infection.
7.Be Prepared for a Mess. When your water breaks, it can come out in a gush or a trickle, and it may continue to leak throughout labor and delivery. Pack several pairs of underwear, absorbent pads, and a change of clothes in your hospital bag.
8.Your Baby May Be in a Breech Position. If you're having a breech baby (bottom-first), you're more likely to experience your water breaking before labor starts.
9.Ask Your Doctor About the Next Steps. Every labor is different, so it's important to talk to your doctor or midwife about what to expect and how to prepare for the birth of your baby.
