Amniotic fluid is the warm , fluid cushion that protects  the baby when he is  in the womb.  The fluid contains :

• hormones
• nutrients
• immune system cells
• your baby’s urine

At its highest level, this fluid is around 1 quart. However after pregnancy week 36, its starts to decrease  in level as the body prepares for childbirth.

During an ultrasound, it is possible for the doctor to be able to estimate the amount of amniotic fluid around the baby. It is also possible for the liquid to start leaking at some point. This fluid gushes out when the amniotic sac raptures.

Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if your amniotic fluid is leaking. However there are certain characteristic and signs that can help you tell if you leaking  amniotic fluid or not.

Signs that you are having amniotic fluid leakage

Amniotic fluid is little bit different from vaginal discharge . The amniotic fluid is

• generally odorless
• continues to leak , sometimes steadily
• you have no control over the flow unlike urine
• the fluid is usually clear and possibly tinged with white specs and mucous and a bit of blood
• if there is a greenish or brownish tint , call your doctor right away. This could be an indication that the baby had bowel movement in utero.

You may also experience a little bit of cramping and discomfort. However most people don’t notice anything except  a steady leak of fluid.

It is unlikely to be amniotic fluid leakage of :

• it has odor
• if its thick like mucous and not soaking through your underwear
• a sudden leak with movement, a baby kick or if the bladder feels full
• yellow tinged like urine

What causes amniotic fluid leakage ?

If your are full term ( 37 weeks of pregnancy ), an amniotic fluid leak simply means that the body is preparing for labor. If you are not full term , it is not clear why your water will start to leak but some of the reasons may be because of these.

• untreated infection
• bad lifestyle choices such as smoking or using illicit drugs
• injury or trauma to the amniotic sac
• a history  of premature rapture of amniotic fluid

What risk is associated with amniotic fluid leakage ?

This condition can be dangerous for both you and your baby. Losing too much fluid during the first and second trimester can result in the following :

• miscarriage
• birth defect
• premature birth
• stillbirth

During the third trimester , it can result in

• difficulty during labor such as squeezing of the umbilical cord which can result in the baby’s inability to get enough oxygen
• increased risk of cesarean delivery
• slowed growth

NOTE

There are several ways to manage and treat amniotic fluid leaks. Your doctor will discuss your option with you.