Did you know that only 1/3 of labours begin with water breaking?♥️ From a Homesteading Doula 🌻🌼

Water Breaking Spontaneously 

• Lower risk of cord prolapse, if water breaks on its own. If water breaks before the baby’s head is engaged, there is still a risk of cord prolapse.

• Lower risk of Infection.

• The amniotic fluid needs to be clear. If it is coloured, you must go straight to the hospital. Coloured fluids mean the baby has passed meconium. This is a sign of distress and increases the risk of infection in babies. 

• Let your healthcare provider know your water broke and follow their instructions. If you live close to the hospital and the fluid is clear, Waiting at home for contractions to begin may be fine. Often after 24 hours or sooner The doctors will induce labour if contractions haven't started on their own.

Artificial Rupture of the Membranes (AROM)

• This can only done if the baby’s head is pressing against the cervix and if the cervix is soft and thinning. If the baby’s head is too high there is a risk of the cord prolapse. 

• The doctor useless a hook called an amiohook that looks like a long crochet but is 12 inches long. 

• Breaking the water often speeds up labour.

• There is no reversing breaking the water. 

• Having your waters broken does increase the risk of infection.