OMG My water just broke!!

Congratulations! You'll be meeting your baby soon! 

The fear of your water breaking in public, a la every Hollywood movie, is real! However, the likelihood of it actually happening is low. Labors beginning with the water breaking only even happen 10-15% of the time. The other 85-90% happen DURING labor. 

If and when it does happen, there are a few things you'll want to look for and there's a handy acronym for that. As a licensed nurse, I love a good acronym!

COAT

C - Color. What color is your water? Is it cloudy, clear, brown, speckled, etc? Be sure to let your midwife or OB know. Clear or cloudy is considered "normal". You may see a very slight blood tinge, and that's typically OK too. Remember, any abnormal bleeding, especially blood flow like a period needs to be reported to your care provider immediately.

O - Odor. Does it have a smell at all? Some women report their amniotic fluid has a sweet hint to it. Others report no odor. A foul odor warrants a phone call to your provider.

A - Amount. Is it a trickle or a gush?

T - Time and Temperature. What time did you first notice your water leaking? Note that so you have a timeline. Taking your temperature orally when your water breaks is a good idea. A rise in temperature is the first sign of an infection, so be sure to get a baseline. 

As always, good, clear, open communication with your doctor or midwife is key. Keep them posted as to any changes you experience or questions you may have. Also continue to monitor baby's movements, as this is a good indicator of their well-being. 


Bethany is a certified natural birth instructor teaching near Denton, Texas. She's also a child passenger safety technician (car seat tech) and professional placenta encapsulator serving families all over the DFW metroplex. Contact her for a consultation today!