When your water breaks early in pregnancy

Obstetrician Paul Crane, MD, shares advice for women on what to do if your water breaks early during pregnancy and when it may be a cause for concern
What To Do When Your Water Breaks Early In Pregnancy
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When your water breaks early in pregnancy

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If the water breaks, it could either be a gush of fluid that is unmistakable, or a trickle that takes a while to ascertain if it has happened. If it happens prior to the due date, it does set up a situation that could be serious. If the water breaks extremely early, prior to 34 weeks, most of the time we would hospitalize the patient, put them on antibiotics, try to prevent labor for a period of time, and perhaps, keep people at bed rest until the baby becomes more mature. Between 34 and 36 weeks, some people would deliver the patient after the water breaks. Some would allow bed rest to continue and allow the pregnancy to continue. If the water breaks after 36 weeks and one does not proceed into labor in a reasonable period of time, then induction of labor is indicated.

Obstetrician Paul Crane, MD, shares advice for women on what to do if your water breaks early during pregnancy and when it may be a cause for concern

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Paul Crane, MD

Obstetrician

Paul Crane, MD, is a board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist and has practiced for more than 30 years. He specializes in natural childbirth and VBAC births in his practice in Beverly Hills. Paul is the father of six children ranging in age from 18 to 40. In his free time, he enjoys photography. Even after 30 years, one of his favorite things to do is deliver babies. 

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Transcription: 
If the water breaks, it could either be a gush of fluid that is unmistakable, or a trickle that takes a while to ascertain if it has happened. If it happens prior to the due date, it does set up a situation that could be serious. If the water breaks extremely early, prior to 34 weeks, most of the time we would hospitalize the patient, put them on antibiotics, try to prevent labor for a period of time, and perhaps, keep people at bed rest until the baby becomes more mature. Between 34 and 36 weeks, some people would deliver the patient after the water breaks. Some would allow bed rest to continue and allow the pregnancy to continue. If the water breaks after 36 weeks and one does not proceed into labor in a reasonable period of time, then induction of labor is indicated.