What does your water broke mean?

The phrase "my water broke" refers to the rupture of the amniotic sac, which is a fluid-filled membrane surrounding the baby during pregnancy. When the amniotic sac ruptures, the fluid is released and the mother may experience a sudden gush of fluid or a slow trickle of fluid from her vagina.

The rupture of the amniotic sac is a natural part of the labor process, and it typically occurs just before or during the onset of labor contractions. However, in some cases, the water can break before labor has started, which is known as premature rupture of membranes (PROM). PROM can occur at any time during pregnancy, but it is more common in the last few weeks before the due date.

If your water breaks, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. This is because PROM can increase the risk of infection for the mother and the baby, and it can also lead to complications such as umbilical cord prolapse. Your healthcare provider will assess the situation and determine the next steps in your pregnancy care.