Watery fluid or discharge from vagina
If you notice fluid coming from your vagina, contact your midwife or maternity unit for help
During pregnancy, the “waters” (the fluid that surrounds the baby) often break just before or when labour starts. You might feel a big rush of fluid, some drops or a little leak or feel your knickers wet. This fluid should be clear and not smell like urine
In some pregnancies, the water breaks early (before 37 weeks). If this happens, it might mean that labour is starting early. If this happens, it’s really important to call your doctor or midwife so they can give you information about lowering your risk of infection
If something doesn't feel right
If you notice a big gush of liquid, a small leak or you are worried, call your maternity unit as soon as possible. The midwife will ask about the colour and amount of fluid and advise you what to do
If your vaginal discharge is coloured (yellow, green), has blood in it (red, pink, brown), or smells strange, this is not normal. It may be a sign of infection or something is not right. Contact your maternity unit/labour ward/triage as soon as possible for advice
The Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology have produced information about what to do if your waters break early, before you go into labour
The NHS has info about the signs that labour has begun
This page was reviewed April 2025