What causes a pregnant woman's water to break?

Jul 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, amniotic fluid leakage during pregnancy may be caused by increased uterine pressure in the late stages of pregnancy, natural maturation and thinning of the fetal membranes, genital tract infections, premature rupture of membranes, or cervical insufficiency. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended. In daily life, pregnant women should maintain personal hygiene, keep the vulva clean, avoid excessive fatigue, and maintain a positive mindset.

Generally, amniotic fluid leakage (rupture of membranes) in pregnant women may be caused by increased uterine pressure in the late stages of pregnancy, natural maturation and thinning of the fetal membranes, genital tract infections, premature rupture of membranes, or cervical insufficiency. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Increased Uterine Pressure in Late Pregnancy

In the late stages of pregnancy, the growing fetus increases intrauterine pressure. When this pressure exceeds the tolerance of the fetal membranes, it may cause rupture and leakage of amniotic fluid. Pregnant women should avoid strenuous activities, slow down daily movements, and engage in mild exercises such as walking. Side-lying positions during sleep can reduce pressure on the fetal membranes. Monitoring fetal movements and bodily changes is also important.

2. Natural Maturation and Thinning of Fetal Membranes

As gestational age increases, the fetal membranes naturally mature, gradually losing elasticity, becoming thinner, and weakening in tensile strength, which may lead to rupture and amniotic fluid leakage. A balanced diet rich in protein and vitamins—such as eggs, lean meats, and fresh fruits and vegetables—is important to enhance membrane resilience. Regular prenatal checkups are necessary to monitor fetal membrane status.

3. Genital Tract Infections

Infections of the genital tract caused by pathogens such as bacteria or mycoplasma may invade and compromise the integrity of the fetal membranes, leading to rupture and leakage of amniotic fluid. Symptoms often include abnormal discharge and odor. Patients should follow medical advice to use medications such as Nifuratel-Netilmicin vaginal soft capsules, Clindamycin phosphate vaginal gel, or Amoxicillin capsules for treatment.

4. Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)

PROM is associated with multiple factors, including poor fetal membrane development, which reduces tensile strength and leads to early rupture and leakage of amniotic fluid. Immediate bed rest with the hips elevated is necessary to prevent excessive loss of amniotic fluid. Prompt medical attention is essential, and under medical guidance, antibiotics such as Cefdinir dispersible tablets, Penicillin V potassium tablets, or Azithromycin dispersible tablets may be prescribed to prevent infection.

5. Cervical Insufficiency

Structural or functional abnormalities of the cervix may prevent it from withstanding intrauterine pressure, causing the fetal membranes to tear and amniotic fluid to leak. This typically occurs in the second trimester. Immediate medical evaluation is necessary. Under medical guidance, medications such as progesterone soft capsules, dydrogesterone tablets, or ritodrine hydrochloride tablets may be used to suppress uterine contractions. In some cases, a cervical cerclage procedure may be required.

In daily life, pregnant women should maintain good personal hygiene, keep the external genital area clean, avoid excessive fatigue, and maintain a positive mindset. If amniotic fluid leakage occurs, prompt medical attention is essential.

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