Distinguish water loss or urinary leakage
It is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between a urinary leak and the loss of water, in the case where the latter is progressive. Especially since at the end of pregnancy urinary leaks are frequent, especially during exercise. To tell the difference, know that urine is yellow and has an odor, while amniotic fluid is clear and odorless. It can sometimes turn brown if it contains your baby’s stools called meconium.
The advice of Professor Jacques Lansac: “If you have any doubts, you should consult the midwife or the doctor, because if the water bag is opened, there is a risk of infection for the baby and for you. In this case, it will be necessary to resort to antibiotics or to proceed with childbirth, if you are at term and the contractions do not occur spontaneously. “
Is the loss of water compulsory?
The loss of water is unpredictable. It can precede or follow intense, regular and painful contractions. It sometimes happens that the water sac does not rupture until the cervix is already well dilated, or that it remains intact until birth. In these latter situations, the midwife will take care of breaking the water bag during labor to allow the baby to come out.
Did you know ?
When their head is pressed against the membrane, some babies are born without the water sac being broken. In this case, professionals say that the child is born “capped”.
