You can know if your water broke by noticing certain signs related to the release of amniotic fluid from the amniotic sac surrounding your baby:

• You might feel a sudden popping or small popping sensation, sometimes described like a balloon or water balloon bursting inside you, often followed by a gush or a slow trickle of fluid from your vagina

• The fluid is typically clear or pale yellow, thin, watery, and odorless, unlike urine or vaginal discharge

• The leaking is uncontrollable and continuous, requiring frequent changes of pads or underwear

• You may feel a sensation of wetness in your vagina or on your perineum, with fluid leaking intermittently or constantly

• The fluid leakage tends to increase when you stand up after lying down

If you are uncertain whether the fluid is amniotic fluid or something else (such as urine or discharge), you can:

• Put on a clean pad or underwear, lie down and relax for 15 to 30 minutes, then stand up to see if fluid leaks out again

• Note the color, amount, and smell of the fluid to help differentiate it from urine or discharge

Because it can be difficult to tell for sure, only a healthcare provider can confirm if your water has broken through a physical exam, sometimes using tests like nitrazine paper or ultrasound

. If you suspect your water has broken, especially if you are near or past your due date, you should contact your healthcare provider or go to your delivery facility promptly. This is important because once your water breaks, labor usually starts soon, and the protective barrier of amniotic fluid is lost, increasing the risk of infection for you and your baby

. In summary, key indicators that your water has broken include a sudden or gradual uncontrollable leak of clear, odorless fluid from your vagina, often accompanied by a popping sensation or pressure release, with fluid increasing when you stand up

. If in doubt, seek medical evaluation immediately.