What happens if amniotic fluid leaks during pregnancy

Photo by elexisbronson. What is Amniotic Fluid? What does amniotic fluid look like? Amniotic fluid is clear or tinted yellow. What does amniotic fluid smell like? The quick answer here: not much. Amniotic fluid is generally odorless. What are Normal Levels of Amniotic Fluid? Low amniotic fluid Oligohydramnios is the condition defined by having too little amniotic fluid. Too much amniotic fluid On the other end of the spectrum is polyhydramnios —the condition of having too much amniotic fluid.

How to decrease amniotic fluid Treatment for polyhydramnios depends on both its severity and its underlying causes. Tests are also done to see if everything is okay with the baby, such as auscultation of the baby's heartbeat and fetal biometry. So, it is possible to check if the pregnancy is going well, despite the amniotic fluid loss. Fluid leakage at the end of pregnancy is usually not serious, but if the woman is losing a lot of fluid, the doctor may choose to induce labor.

If this loss occurs after 36 weeks, it is usually a sign of rupture of the membranes, so go to the hospital as labor may have started. The causes for leaking amniotic fluid are not always known. It has a range of functions, all of which relate to the development of the fetus. The fetus and fluid stay in the amniotic sac, which usually breaks when a woman goes into labor. It can sometimes rupture early, which is called premature rupture of membranes PROM. In this article, learn about the signs that amniotic fluid is leaking, the common causes of PROM, and when to speak to a doctor.

Leaking amniotic fluid might feel like a gush of warm fluid or a slow trickle from the vagina. It will usually be clear and odorless but may sometimes contain traces of blood or mucus. The uterus sits on the bladder during pregnancy, so it is not uncommon for pregnant women to leak urine. If the discharge smells like urine, it probably is. Women may also experience an increase in vaginal discharge during pregnancy. Normal discharge tends to have a mild smell and look milky.

While waiting for medical attention, a woman should not use tampons, have sex, or do anything else that might introduce bacteria into the vagina. A doctor may take a sample of the fluid to determine whether it is amniotic fluid.

They may also carry out tests to determine the cause of the leak. These tests could include a vaginal exam to see if the cervix is dilating and the woman is in labor. An ultrasound can help doctors check how much fluid is surrounding the baby. They may also perform a dye test, which involves introducing blue dye into the amniotic sac and asking the woman to wear a sanitary pad.

If the dye shows up on the pad, this can indicate leaking amniotic fluid. Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Registry Builder New. Medically Reviewed by Eric Surrey, M. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals. Back to Top. In This Article. Continue Reading Below. Recommended Reading.

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