What is Amniotic fluid discharge during pregnancy?

Amniotic fluid is the watery liquid which surrounds the fetus within the uterus.  This fetus is enabled to move very freely with the help of this amniotic fluid. Sometimes, hindrance is caused as the uterus walls are very tight. At the same time, a cushioning is also provided by this fluid within the uterus. Buoyancy is given to the fetus. The amniotic sac is filled up by the amniotic fluid about 2 weeks after fertilization. After another 10 weeks, different carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, urea and phospholipids are contained in this amniotic fluid.   Amniotic fluid discharge during pregnancy is very normal.  In some cases, this is a sign of labor.

1. Amniotic fluid discharge during pregnancy completes the full term. The membranes of the amniotic sac burst. There is a leakage of amniotic fluid from the vagina. This is also known as SROM. In common parlance, this is also known as a time, when the woman’s water breaks.

2. However, there are many times, when a tear or a rupture is developed in the amniotic sac and the fluid is leaked out of it. This usually occurs 37 weeks before the term. This is also known as premature rupture of membrane. When this case occurs, the fluid gushes out or leaks out  continuously in the form of a discharge.

3. When there is an occurrence of premature rupture of the amniotic sac, determining the cause of the leaking amniotic fluid is very essential. This leakage is sometimes caused due to the defect in the structure of amniotic sac or sometimes due to bacterial infection.

4. This leakage may also lead to many complications for the growth of the fetus. This may also lead to bacterial infection which spreads to the uterus from the vagina and also to the fetus. Sometimes, if there is a tear in the amniotic sac, it heals itself over a period of time and the leaking stops on its own.

5. This leaking of the amniotic fluid is usually a result of the severe rupture of the membranes. The labor usually begins after 48 hours. Treatment must be received by the mother-to –be for avoiding infection to the fetus. Amniotic fluid discharge during pregnancy is usually colorless.

Dealing with this discharge

Many a times women may wonder about their leakage of amniotic fluid. They must note that the color of the leaking fluid helps in its identification. Sometimes the fluid is brown, pinkish, greenish or yellowish in color. The woman must immediately go to the hospital and the physician must be consulted.