What Happens if Waters Break Before Labour?

At the end of pregnancy, most people expect labour to start with contractions — maybe slow and steady at first, then building up as things get underway. But what happens if your water breaks before labour? This is a question many expectant mothers may have.

But what if the first sign of labour isn’t contractions… but your waters breaking?

It can be a bit of a surprise (especially if it happens dramatically, like in the movies). But more often, it’s a trickle, not a gush — and it might happen before any other signs of labour have begun.

So what does it mean if your waters break before labour? What should you do next? And how can you prepare ahead of time, so you’re calm and confident if it happens?

Let’s break it down, honestly.

What Are “Waters,” Anyway?

Your “waters” refer to the amniotic sac — a fluid-filled membrane that cushions and protects your baby throughout pregnancy.

When your waters break (officially called pre-labour rupture of membranes, or PROM), it means that sac has opened. This is a normal part of labour — but when it happens before contractions begin, it needs some extra attention.

Is It Normal for Waters to Break Before Labour?

Yes — this happens in about 10% of pregnancies. For most people, contractions follow within 24 hours. But sometimes, labour doesn’t start on its own right away, and that’s when decisions need to be made with your midwife or care provider.

The key issue here is timing — because once your waters break, there’s a slightly higher risk of infection (since the protective barrier around baby is no longer sealed).

If you’re full-term (37+ weeks), you’ll likely be offered expectant management — waiting a period of time to see if labour starts on its own, while monitoring you and baby for any signs of infection.

If labour doesn’t start within a set window (often 24–36 hours depending on local guidelines), induction may be recommended to reduce that risk.

💡 The Honest Midwife Tip: Knowing your local hospital or birth centre’s guidelines around PROM can help you feel informed and ready if it happens to you.

What Should I Do if My Waters Break?

If you think your waters have gone, here’s what to do:

Take Note of the Time

This helps your midwife track how long your waters have been broken.

Check the Colour and Smell

Normal amniotic fluid is clear or pale pink, and may have a mild, sweet smell.

If it’s green, brown, or has a foul odour, call your midwife or triage line straight away — this may indicate meconium, which means baby has passed their first poo in the womb, and can need monitoring.

Put on a Maternity Pad

Avoid tampons — use a pad instead, so you can monitor the fluid and spot any changes. Those maternity pads come in handy earlier than expected sometimes!

Call Your Midwife or Birth Centre

They’ll ask a few questions, possibly invite you in for a quick check-up, and help plan the next steps based on your individual situation.

Can I Still Birth at Home or in a Birth Centre?

Often, yes — especially if:

You’re full-term

There are no signs of infection

You and baby are well

Labour begins naturally within 24 hours

Your midwife may recommend regular temperature checks and avoiding things like baths or vaginal exams to help reduce infection risk. Every case is different, so this is a great conversation to have during your birth planning appointments.

What About the Baby?

Most babies are absolutely fine when waters break before labour. But care providers will keep a close eye on movements, heart rate, and any signs of infection (in both you and baby).

If labour takes a little while to start, try not to stress — many people go into labour within hours.

🧘‍♀️ This is a good time to rest, nourish yourself, and lean into any relaxation tools you’ve learned in our classes — whether it’s hypnobirthing techniques or just some deep, slow breathing.

How Can I Prepare?

If you’re still pregnant and planning ahead, here’s what you can do now:

🌿 Take a Class

My FREE Natural Labour & Birth class includes tips for labour prep too — because being ready for any scenario (including PROM) helps you stay calm and grounded.

Explore the Class Here »

📦 Pack Early, Pack Smart

Your hospital bag should include:

Extra maternity pads

A change of comfy, absorbent underwear

A pen and notepad (to jot down times, movements, or questions)

Some calming tools — like a playlist, oils, or a TENS machine

🤝 Talk to Your Birth Team

Ask your midwife: “What’s the policy if my waters break before labour?” It’s a great way to understand your options in advance.

Trust Your Body, Be Prepared

Your body is wise — and while PROM might not be how you pictured labour starting, it’s a very manageable situation when you know what to look for and what to do.

Most importantly: you don’t need to panic.

Stay hydrated, rest, and tune in to your instincts. And if you haven’t already, make time to plan for what comes after birth too — your postnatal recovery is just as important.

Resources & Research

You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
The Honest Midwife 💛