Leaking Amniotic Fluid: Signs, Causes, and What to Do

Leaking amniotic fluid during pregnancy could signal that labour is approaching, or it might indicate a complication that needs to be checked out by your healthcare provider. Amniotic fluid is typically clear or lightly yellow and odourless. Unlike urine or regular vaginal discharge, amniotic fluid often continues leaking once it starts. You may notice a sudden gush or a steady trickle from the vagina that doesn’t stop.

Let’s take a closer look at the causes of leaking amniotic fluid, the warning signs, possible risks, and what to do next.

What Is Amniotic Fluid?

Amniotic fluid is the unique, protective liquid that surrounds your little one throughout pregnancy. Sometimes called “amniotic water,” this see-through or gently yellow fluid acts as a cushion, helping keep your baby comfy, regulating temperature, and supporting the growth of lungs, digestion, muscles, and bones. This important fluid is first produced by the placenta, then later by your baby. It’s a vital part of a healthy pregnancy!

Normal Amniotic Fluid Levels

Your care team will check your amniotic fluid levels at prenatal visits since they are an important sign of your baby’s health. An ultrasound is generally used to see how much amniotic fluid is inside your uterus. Levels generally peak between 34 and 36 weeks, then decline until delivery.

Two common ways to assess amniotic fluid are the amniotic fluid index (AFI) and maximum vertical pocket (MVP).

These measurements help your provider decide if your levels are normal. Too much amniotic fluid is called polyhydramnios, while too little is called oligohydramnios.

If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to talk to your care provider.

What Does Amniotic Fluid Look and Smell Like?

Amniotic fluid is usually clear or pale yellow and can sometimes have streaks of brown or red. It’s thin and watery, often felt as a steady drip or slow leak.

It’s also odourless—unlike urine, which typically carries a strong ammonia scent.

Wondering how amniotic fluid appears on a pad or toilet paper?

If you see clear, unscented leakage, it might be amniotic fluid. Urine is more likely to be yellowish and have a distinct smell, while vaginal discharge is thicker.

Track each moment as your baby grows by using our Pregnancy Calendar for every exciting stage.

Signs of Leaking Amniotic Fluid

If you suddenly feel a gush or notice a persistent, slow trickle of fluid that won’t stop, it could be amniotic fluid. It might seem like you’re urinating, but you won’t feel the need to pee. Watch for these typical signs:

• Your underwear feels wet, clear, and watery

• The fluid has a neutral odour (not ammonia)

• Your pad soaks through quickly

• The trickling continues even after changing position or emptying your bladder.

Many people wonder: is it leaked amniotic fluid or just discharge? It can be tough to tell. Vaginal discharge is stickier and thicker than amniotic fluid and may look clear, milky or yellowish.

Still unsure? Reach out to your doctor or midwife—they’re there to help.

Amniotic Fluid Test Strips

Your care provider may use amniotic fluid test strips (nitrazine paper) or a speculum exam to identify if your water has broken. These tests look for chemical differences, such as pH level. While there are some at-home test kits, only a medical setting provides full accuracy. Trust your provider rather than an at-home test.

What Causes Amniotic Fluid to Leak?

The main causes for leaking amniotic fluid are:

• PROM (Premature Rupture of Membranes). The amniotic sac breaks after 37 weeks but ahead of labour. You may know this as your “water breaking,” although for many, it only happens in labour.

• PPROM (Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes). This is when the amniotic fluid sac breaks before 37 weeks.

• Infections, overstretched uterus, or injury. These are less common but increase risk of ruptured membranes.

Risk factors for PROM or PPROM may include smoking, past preterm birth, or twins, triplets, etc.

Risks of Leaking Amniotic Fluid

Leaking amniotic fluid too early can cause:

• Infection (such as chorioamnionitis, a serious infection of the tissues around your baby)

• Preterm labour

• Cord prolapse (when the umbilical cord drops into the birth canal—rare but serious)

• Placental abruption (when the placenta separates from the uterus).

Your healthcare team can explain the risks and when closer monitoring or early delivery is best for you and your baby.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Your provider will advise whether you should go in or wait at home. When in doubt, always check—your health and your baby’s are most important.

Packing for the hospital? The Hospital Bag Checklist tool ensures you’re ready for your big day—just in case it’s time!

Treatment for Leaking Amniotic Fluid

How leaking amniotic fluid is treated depends on timing and reason:

• After 37 weeks: Labour might be induced if it doesn’t start naturally

• Before 37 weeks: Your provider weighs early delivery versus ongoing pregnancy, depending on your baby’s health and your own. You may need hospital monitoring. Treatment might involve antibiotics (against infection), steroids (for baby’s lung development), or medicines to delay labour (tocolytics).

Every pregnancy is different, so your care team will recommend what’s safest for you and your baby.

The Bottom Line

Leaking amniotic fluid may just be a normal part of labour, or it could be a sign that requires fast medical attention. Watch for a clear, watery, unscented fluid that leaks or trickles constantly. If you’re unsure, call your provider—getting care early matters. While preparing for your baby, discover the Pampers brand history and why so many Canadian families trust us.

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_{How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.}