Does ultrasound determine the leakage of amniotic fluid. Determination of leakage of amniotic fluid on ultrasound. Is it possible to see water leakage on ultrasound

During pregnancy, the fetus is surrounded by amniotic fluid in the mother's womb, which is commonly called amniotic fluid. They are important in relation to the development of the fetus, therefore, their outpouring normally occurs only during a certain period of labor.

If waters begin to drain ahead of time, this threatens premature resolution and becomes a serious risk factor. It is necessary to understand why such situations are dangerous for a woman and a baby. The question of how to understand that the waters have departed should be studied by every expectant mother.

Amniotic fluid loss symptoms

Many women, even at the beginning of their term, are interested in how to understand that the waters have departed. The physiology of a woman is arranged in such a way that during the third trimester of pregnancy, the discharge is more abundant, and this is an absolute norm. It is necessary to identify the nature of such manifestations, which should be done by the gynecologist leading the pregnancy. But the expectant mother, for the sake of her own safety and the health of the baby, must herself be able to determine that the premature discharge of fluid has begun. It is important to know and understand what is happening in the body: leakage of amniotic fluid or discharge.

The main symptoms that can make you alert are the following factors:

• The outflow of fluid increases with change of position and movement.
• If there is a significant gap fetal bladder, the liquid begins to flow down the legs. A woman cannot stop the flow even with the effort of her genital muscles.
• If the bladder damage is microscopic, leakage is determined exclusively with a smear in antenatal clinic or special tests.

External differences

You can distinguish between two states - leakage of amniotic fluid or discharge - by appearance formations on underwear or hygiene products. The waters have a transparent color (sometimes with a pinkish, greenish, brownish tint), they are a little unclear. The discharge may have a thicker consistency and a white, yellowish-white, brownish tint. The amniotic fluid, which is far from transparent, should also alert the expectant mother.

Special tests for home checking

Understanding what is really happening (leakage of amniotic fluid or discharge) will help tests that are specially designed to check women at home. The most effective are two research methods, the essence of which is as follows:

• Before checking, you need to go to the toilet, wash intimate area, pat dry with a towel. After that, it is recommended to lie down on a clean, dry sheet or diaper. If spots appear on the surface of the fabric after twenty minutes, there is a high probability of premature rupture. The reliability of this technique is about 80%.
• The possibility of loss allows the identification of special accessories. Pads for the outpouring of amniotic fluid can be purchased at a pharmacy for an average of 300 rubles.

Special testing facilities

Some pharmaceutical companies produce special pads for leakage of amniotic fluid. According to its external characteristics, this is a completely standard hygiene package. The main difference is that each product contains special reagents. They help to reliably determine even the smallest rate of outpouring.

The test is simple enough: the garment is attached to the underwear and left on for 12 hours. The reagents react exclusively to amniotic fluid and color the pad in aqua. The study allows you to distinguish the presence of a discharge from the underlying problem. The hygiene bag just won't change its color.

At the first signs of outpouring, you should immediately contact a gynecologist, because such a condition can threaten the health of the fetus and mother. It is also better to see a doctor if a woman is worried about any suspicions. Only a specialist will help remove unnecessary fears and reliably establish whether a woman has amniotic fluid leakage or discharge, which are a sign of healthy body functioning. In any case, you need to listen carefully to your condition.

How to recognize amniotic fluid leakage with a high level of confidence?

Professional methods of examination give high efficiency. During the medical examination, a more detailed diagnosis is carried out. Manipulating a special instrument - a gynecological mirror - the obstetrician examines the cervix. It is likely that the woman will have to specifically push. If at this moment an abundant flow of fluid begins, the fetal bladder may be damaged, and the doctor determines how the amniotic fluid is leaking. Further tactics of actions are built depending on the results of the research.

Additional manipulations

A medical test for amniotic fluid leakage consists of determining the pH level of the vagina. If the environment is normal, high acidity will be detected. With the loss of amniotic fluid, it becomes slightly alkaline or neutral. This method also allows you to determine the presence of various infectious diseases.

Often, the obstetrician conducts a cytological study - this is a special test for amniotic fluid. The substance to be separated is applied to the glass. After drying, it is determined that it is: water or physiological secretions. At 40 weeks of the term, the technique is not used

If the doctors justified their suspicions, an ultrasound examination is performed at the end to determine the exact amount of amniotic fluid. If their volume is less than normal, oligohydramnios is diagnosed.

Risk factors

• Infectious lesions of the genital tract that arose even before pregnancy or on early dates.
• Uterine malformations (mainly congenital).
• Cervical insufficiency. The cervix is \u200b\u200bpoorly closed and cannot handle the pressure from the growing fetus.
• Polyhydramnios. The diagnosis is made after an ultrasound examination.
• Chorionic biopsy, cordocentesis, amniocentesis. Genetic disorders.
• Mechanical injury while waiting for the baby.
• Insufficient pressure of the presenting part of the fetus. It is most often observed in women with a narrow pelvis and in the presence of anomalies in its development.
• Multiple pregnancy.

What is the norm?

A healthy pregnancy and childbirth imply the following sequence of events: when the 38th, 39th, 40th week of pregnancy comes, labor can begin at any time. When one of the contractions occurs, the bubble, which contains the amniotic fluid, breaks, and they come out in one stream. If this does not happen, the obstetrician performs a forced puncture, which is called an amniotomy.

Classification

Depending on the time when the effusion occurs, and on how the amniotic fluid leaks, the following classification has been developed:

• Timely. Begins at the end of the first birth period with full or almost complete cervical dilatation.
• Premature. When she is 39, before the onset of stable labor.
• Early. Leakage during labor, but before cervical opening.
• Belated. It occurs due to the high density of the membranes. Outpouring begins in the second birth period.
• High rupture of shells. Occurs at a level above the pharynx of the uterine cervix.

Ideally, the outpouring should be timely. But in a full-term pregnancy, the duration of which exceeds 37 weeks, any option may be favorable if, as a result, normal labor develops. This condition is considered dangerous if the period is less than 37 weeks.

Why is leakage dangerous?

In order to understand all the consequences that threaten premature effusion, it is necessary to understand the functions carried by amniotic fluid:

• A barrier to infection. Infection through the maternal genital organs can reach the baby through a vertical route.
• Prevention of compression of the umbilical cord. Water helps to create free blood flow to the baby.
• Mechanical function. The fetus receives protection from negative external influences, such as shocks or falls. Conditions are created for the free movement of the baby.
• Biologically active environment. There is a constant exchange and secretion of chemicals between the mother and the baby.

In case of development of violations, all functions suffer, but intrauterine infection becomes the most dangerous complication, because leakage occurs due to the loss of the integrity of the membranes. As a result, the tightness of the medium is lost, protection from external influences is lost, and sterility is violated. Viruses, bacteria, fungi can penetrate to the fetus.

If an outpouring is found ...

If an outpouring occurs during this it can cause the fetus to become infected with various infections that can overcome all protection without barriers. As soon as the obstetrician makes sure that there is a leak, the woman is sent for ultrasound diagnostics. This study helps determine the maturity of the baby in the womb. If the kidneys and the respiratory system of the fetus are ready for full functioning outside the uterus, it is carried out.This prevents the baby from getting an infection.

If the fetus is not ready for independent life, measures are taken to prolong the pregnancy - doctors will wait for the fetus to be ready for childbirth. Therapy boils down to the following:

• Prescription of antibacterial drugs. This will help prevent intrauterine infection.
• Strict bed rest. Calm and stable posture facilitate the therapy.
• Permanent monitoring of the health, condition of the child, since every day is considered important. The baby has every chance to grow to a viable state in the mother's womb. An assessment of its blood flow, movement is carried out.
• Mother undergoes laboratory tests, body temperature is measured.
• In the absence of signs of infection, wait-and-see tactics continue. The child's airways can be prepared for independent functioning, for which hormonal drugs can be prescribed. It is not dangerous, all measures are aimed at preserving the health of the mother and child.

Instead of a conclusion

Premature leakage of water can be prevented if a woman, in the presence of risk factors, carries out appropriate prevention. For example, timely treatment of cervical insufficiency is implemented, when a suture can be applied to the cervix, a special suture is introduced.In some cases, conservation therapy, sanitation of the genital tract and other potential infectious foci (pyelonephritis, caries, tonsillitis) are carried out. The most favorable prognosis develops with outpouring in a full-term pregnancy. However, the expectant mother should not panic, it is advisable to remain calm and follow all the doctor's instructions.

The amniotic fluid or amniotic fluid is the natural environment for the life and development of the fetus in the womb.

The main functions of fruit waters:

• First of all, the waters protect the child from negative microorganisms, since the fetal bladder is sealed, and the liquid itself is sterile. Also, amniotic fluid ensures the safety of the fetus from mechanical stress from the external environment. For example, when a pregnant woman falls. In addition, the waters muffle the strong noise from the outside.

• Fruit waters contain many nutrients and useful substances (proteins, fats, vitamins, glucose, salts and hormones). In early pregnancy, they are absorbed through the skin; in later weeks, the baby swallows them.

Metabolism.

• The baby not only receives nutrients from the amniotic fluid, but also excretes processed foods in it. The amniotic fluid is completely renewed every 3 hours.

Participation in labor activity.

• The anterior waters during childbirth press on the cervix, facilitating its opening. They also provide easier passage of the fetus through the birth canal.

Outpouring of water after 37 weeks of gestation (full-term) is considered physiological at the onset of labor. Provided that the cervix is \u200b\u200bopen and ready for labor.

If water leakage occurs earlier, then this causes concern and is a pathology. At the same time, there is a high risk of infection. But rendered in time preventive measures help to avoid this.

The reasons

There can be several reasons for water leakage:

Infection.

• Pathogenic microorganisms can lead to thinning of the membranes, so there is a risk of rupture or cracking.

• This is a pathology in which the cervix is \u200b\u200bunable to cope with the obturator function, that is, to keep the fetus in the uterine cavity. Therefore, there are risks of rupture of the membranes. For the purpose of prophylaxis in case of isthmic-cervical insufficiency, stitches are applied to the cervix or a pessary is installed. A pregnant woman with such a pathology should be under the supervision of doctors with bed rest.

Some diagnostic tests.

• For example, amniocentesis or cordocentesis. They are carried out for genetic reasons. In these procedures, the doctor, with the consent of the woman, carefully punctures the fetal bladder in order to detect the disease. With cordocentesis, blood is taken from the umbilical cord for analysis, and with amniocentesis, amniotic fluid is taken.

Multiple pregnancies or polyhydramnios.

• These factors increase pressure on the fetal bladder and cervix, so rupture may occur.

Some pathologies.

• These include: mechanical injuries during pregnancy, improper position of the fetus, etc. And also the cause of pathology can be the mother's bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol).

Symptoms and signs of water leakage

Signs that indicate the leakage of fetal waters:

• vaginal discharge becomes thinner, like water;
• when moving or changing position, the pregnant woman clearly feels the discharge of water from the genital tract, especially if she slightly strains at the same time;
• if the rupture of the fetal bladder is large, then the water will flow in a stream;
• the abdominal circumference decreases slightly.

Diagnostics

Leakage of amniotic fluid can be determined at home. For this, there are special tests that can be bought at any pharmacy.

There are two types of tests:

• test strip.
• test strip.

Their mechanism of action is the same - determining the change in the environment (Ph) in the vagina. When amniotic fluid enters the test (on a specific area), it turns green-blue. More details are described in the attached instructions.

These tests do not give 100% guarantee, since the presence of an infection in the vagina can also lead to a change in Ph.

Important! Remember that even if you suspect a leakage of fetal water, you must immediately inform the obstetrician-gynecologist, as this carries some risks.

Diagnostics on an outpatient basis

The doctor determines the leakage of water using a special smear. When the amniotic fluid enters the vagina, a certain protein is found in it, which is found only in the amniotic fluid.

What to do if water leaks

The method of eliminating the problem depends on the period of pregnancy at which the leak occurred. However, it is impossible to completely stop the violation, the goal of treatment is aimed at preserving the safety of the fetus and mother.

If leakage occurs during a long period of pregnancy, then this may indicate an imminent onset of labor. If the contractions do not start after 3 hours, then the obstetrician stimulates labor or performs a caesarean section.

In case of a premature pregnancy, a woman is in a hospital with strict bed rest. Antibiotics and treatment of the genital tract with antiseptic drugs are prescribed.

Possible complications and prognosis

When the membranes rupture, there is a very high risk of fetal infection. As soon as the leakage of water is confirmed, the doctor immediately sends the pregnant woman for an ultrasound scan. With the help of this diagnostic method, the degree of maturity of the child is determined. If he is ready to breathe on his own and be born, then a caesarean section is prescribed to avoid the irreversible consequences of infection.

If the fetus is still premature, not ripe, then the pregnant woman is hospitalized urgently. Antibiotic therapy is carried out for the purpose of prophylaxis and strict bed rest is prescribed. As soon as the baby can breathe on its own, delivery will be performed.

Some studies during pregnancy

The nature of vaginal discharge during pregnancy changes repeatedly. Under the influence of hormones and other factors, they become sometimes transparent, sometimes whitish, sometimes liquid, sometimes thick, and sometimes even normally can be beige or brown. Of course, the expectant mother has to be a little nervous while she makes sure that this is the way it should be.

But doctors not without reason urge to contact them with the appearance of the slightest alarming or incomprehensible signs. Because very often vaginal discharge during pregnancy is evidence of pathological processes that require urgent medical intervention.

Gynecologists also include leakage of amniotic fluid among such conditions. If you notice that your underwear is systematically getting wet and moist from vaginal discharge, then it is imperative to make sure that it does not leak water.

Normally, the outflow of amniotic fluid accompanies the onset of the labor process. At the moment of the strongest contraction, the cervix opens, and the fetal bladder bursts, after which the water immediately leaves. Sometimes this happens even before the contractions start, and then the pregnant woman should go to the hospital immediately, without waiting for the contractions to begin.

However, it often also happens that water begins to leak in small portions long before the due date. First of all, this suggests that the integrity of the fetal bladder is violated, which means that the sterility inside it is now under threat. The closer to childbirth this happens, the more favorable the medical prognosis will be.

Leakage of amniotic fluid threatens the development of intrauterine infections that can get to the baby through the cracks formed in the bladder. If you do not notice or miss the leakage of water in time, then on later dates childbirth may begin prematurely, and early pregnancy may be terminated or the fetus will die in utero. In addition, the risk of poor generic detail in the event of labor and the occurrence of infectious complications in the mother increases.

This is why it is very important to be able to recognize leaks as early as possible. And we must admit that this can be difficult to do ...

How to identify water leakage during pregnancy

Amniotic fluid, as a rule, it has neither a characteristic color, nor a specific smell, by which it could be unmistakably recognized. It is completely transparent, although, nevertheless, it may have a yellowish tint, which further confuses expectant mothers (and with pathologies - green), and contain flakes of original lubricant.

The biggest difficulty is that the leakage occurs in small portions, and it can be very difficult for women to distinguish between urinary incontinence, vaginal discharge or amniotic fluid - what does water leakage look like?

Signs of amniotic fluid leakage are few. This is mainly feeling of moisture in the perineum: a woman notices that from time to time a certain amount of fluid flows out of the vagina, which is why the underwear becomes wet all the time, it has to be changed often and daily pads are used. Discharge during leakage occurs or intensifies with tension of the vaginal muscles: after sneezing or coughing, prolonged laughter, when a woman stands up or picks up something heavy.

But such symptoms do not always mean that water is guaranteed to leak. Similar signs are characteristic of urinary incontinence, which often occurs in late pregnancy. It may also be a normal vaginal discharge. Therefore, without additional research, it is impossible to accurately determine whether water is leaking.

Amniotic fluid leak test

If there is a suspicion of amniotic fluid leakage, then the simplest and most affordable thing a pregnant woman can do in such a situation is to buy and conduct a special leak test... It contains a pad that is impregnated with a reagent that only reacts to substances with a high pH, \u200b\u200blike amniotic fluid. If the color of the pad changes while wearing it, you should immediately consult a doctor. Detailed instructions on how to conduct a home leakage test are included in each package of amnitest.

Analysis for leakage of amniotic fluid

More reliable result can be obtained by passing amniotic fluid leak test... To do this, you need to visit a gynecologist, and he will take a smear from the vagina. If cells contained in the amniotic fluid are found in the smear, then the leak will be confirmed.

Will ultrasound show amniotic fluid leakage?

In fear of the worst outcome and possible consequences, pregnant women are ready to undergo any examinations to make sure that everything is in order. In this regard, many women are interested in whether they will see amniotic fluid leakage on ultrasound.

The fact that the wall of the fetal bladder, through which the amniotic fluid is released, is not intact, is not visible on ultrasound. However, a specialist, of course, diagnoses low water, one of the reasons for which may be prolonged water leakage. Dynamic ultrasound examination can confirm the leakage of amniotic fluid if its amount decreases.

How long can there be amniotic fluid leakage

Most often, pregnant women begin to suspect leakage at a later date, especially when there is less and less before the expected date of birth.

During this period, the risks of losing integrity to the fetal bladder increase, and the woman herself becomes more and more suspicious and worries about every occasion and even without. However, trouble can happen at an earlier date.

Leakage of water in early pregnancy

This happens infrequently, and even less often it can be determined. This means that not even every experienced doctor can diagnose the leakage of amniotic fluid in early pregnancy or even suspect it. After all, the amount of amniotic fluid during this period is still insignificant, and vaginal discharge, as a rule, is abundant, watery and transparent. Leaking in scanty portions, the waters mix with the leucorrhoea and thus “hide”. Difficulties in diagnosis often lead to the fact that for this reason, early pregnancy is terminated.

In most cases, water will start to leak late in pregnancy. This significantly increases the chances of its preservation. But you still need to understand that it is impossible to stop the process in some way. If there is not much left before the expected date of birth, and the child is already ready to be born without serious consequences for his health, then the doctors will most likely make a decision about childbirth as an emergency: they will stimulate or cesarean section... Otherwise, the mother will be admitted to the hospital for preservation and will be prescribed therapy that will reduce the risks of intrauterine infection of the child and help to safely wait for the period when the baby's lungs and other vital organs are ripe in order to carry out early delivery.

Water leakage during pregnancy: causes

From the very beginning of its development, the future baby is reliably protected from possible negative influences from the outside world. One form of this protection is a sealed fetal bladder filled with sterile amniotic fluid. Here, in a small cozy dwelling, the crumbs are preserved and maintained the necessary conditions for its favorable development.

As your baby grows, the amount of amniotic fluid increases, providing, among other things, the nutrition the baby needs and an environment for comfortable movement. And if the water began to leak, then this speaks only of one thing: the integrity of the fetal bladder is violated, which, of course, should not be normal. But there may be several reasons leading to the thinning of the walls of the bubble, ruptures and microcracks:

• bad habits during pregnancy;
• infectious diseases, including genitourinary infections, suffered by the expectant mother, inflammatory processes in the vagina or uterus (most often leakage occurs due to colpitis, endocervicitis);
• some chronic diseases of a pregnant woman;
• isthmic-cervical insufficiency (when the cervix is \u200b\u200bnot able to hold the fetus inside the uterus properly);
• carrying multiple pregnancies;
• polyhydramnios;
• trauma during pregnancy;
• neoplasms on the uterus;
• pathology of the structure of the uterus or pelvic bones (most often a narrow pelvis during pregnancy);
• puncture of the fetal bladder prior to leakage (for example, after amniocentesis, cordocentesis, or chorionic villus sampling).

For whatever reason the trouble happens, it is always necessary to act in the same way. If amniotic fluid begins to leak, then without medical supervision there is practically no chance that the pregnancy will end safely. Be sure to tell your doctor if something confuses or worries you: competent medical support will help your baby to be born without any risks.

If there is a premature rupture of amniotic fluid, then you need to urgently go to the hospital!

Especially for - Larisa Nezabudkina

Causes, signs and consequences of amniotic fluid leakage during different periods of pregnancy. Modern methods for diagnosing amniotic fluid leakage. What to do if water starts leaking?

Amniotic fluid or amniotic fluid is an integral part of the process intrauterine development fetus. Leakage or premature discharge of amniotic fluid is considered a pathology and requires urgent correction of the situation. But how to understand that amniotic fluid is leaking or moving away at different periods of pregnancy? What if the amniotic fluid leaks out? What are the methods for diagnosing amniotic fluid leakage?

How does the amniotic fluid look, what color, smell?

Functions of amniotic fluid

Amniotic fluid performs a whole list of useful functions:

• Protect the fetus from external mechanical damage (blows, bruises).
• At first, the embryo is provided with all the necessary substances and microelements (proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, hormones, enzymes, etc.).
• Allows the baby to move freely within the placenta.
• They protect it from infections and bacteria due to the immunoglobulins they contain.
• Provide sound blockage to the fetus from the outside world.
• Prevents spontaneous cord clamping.
• They take over all the life processes of the baby.

Normally, the amniotic fluid should be from 0.6 to 1.5 liters, depending on the stage of development of the fetus and the timing of pregnancy. Any deviations from these indicators are already considered a serious problem. In this regard, women can be diagnosed with polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios. Low water is much less common than polyhydramnios, and is a more complex condition.

As for the color of the amniotic fluid, it looks transparent, since it is 97% water. Already upon careful examination, you can find lanugo (small hairs from the baby's skin) in them, as well as particles of the skin of the crumbs.

However, sometimes the amniotic fluid has a completely different color, which indicates the presence of any changes and violations in the process of fetal development:

• Pink amniotic fluid may indicate the presence of blood particles in it. This is often a sign of placental abruption.
• If the amniotic fluid is colored green or yellow, then this state of affairs may indicate fetal hypoxia or intrauterine infection.
• The most dangerous are dark brown or black fruit waters. In such situations, emergency help is needed for the baby and his mother.

If we talk about the smell of amniotic fluid, then many doctors claim that it is somewhat similar to the scent breast milk... Perhaps this is precisely why, barely born, the baby is looking for a painfully familiar smell on her mother's chest.

Signs, symptoms and causes of amniotic fluid leakage in the second trimester

Causes of leakage of amniotic fluid in the second trimester

The reasons for the leakage of amniotic fluid in the second trimester can be:

1. Mechanical impact on the bladder (blows, falls, bruises).
2. Various kinds of infection that have penetrated the genitals or through the placenta.
3. Tumors in the uterus.
4. Too intense or deep sexual contact (especially if there are contraindications).
5. Incorrectly technically performed diagnostics of a pregnant woman, which led to damage to the fetal bladder.
6. Isthmic-cervical insufficiency.
7. Multiple pregnancy.
8. Fetal presentation.
9. Lack or excess of amniotic fluid.

It is quite difficult to recognize the leakage of amniotic fluid during pregnancy, since many women during this period of their life very often suffer from urinary incontinence and involuntary urination. However, with a close examination of the released fluid and careful observation of herself, the pregnant woman will still be able to independently diagnose the leakage of amniotic fluid. In any case, even if there are faint signs of amniotic fluid coming out, it is best to see a doctor right away.

• When viewed externally, the amniotic fluid flowed out will have a transparent color and an unusual odor, while urine is distinguished by its yellowness and a corresponding "aroma".
• With regard to the identification of amniotic fluid in comparison with other vaginal secretions, they are often white, yellow, green or pink in color and mucous impurities, which is uncharacteristic of fetal fluids.
• Leakage of amniotic fluid can be observed with a sharp change in body position, as well as during physical exertion.

If the discharge of amniotic fluid was not diagnosed in time, then in the later stages a woman may experience more pronounced symptoms of a dangerous condition:

• high body temperature
• nausea and vomiting
• weakness and body aches
• discharge with a pungent, unpleasant odor

It is also possible to detect amniotic fluid leakage at home using special pharmacy testing tools.

Signs, symptoms and causes of amniotic fluid leakage in the third trimester

If a woman, after 37 weeks of pregnancy, has a clear liquid suddenly flowed down her legs, then she should take a bag with her and go to the hospital. This situation suggests that her fetal bladder burst, and labor began.
If a pregnant woman begins to notice that wet transparent marks remain on her underwear, then it is advisable for her to observe herself - perhaps she is leaking amniotic fluid. This state of affairs in the third trimester is not considered dangerous, but it must be diagnosed in time. The reason for this is the harmful consequences for the fetus - a lack of amniotic fluid can lead to oxygen starvation of the baby and other deplorable conditions.
To understand what exactly the leakage is happening, you need to conduct a series of tests:

• Try to contain the discharge with the help of the vaginal muscles - if nothing works out, then there is a leakage of water.
• Empty as much as possible bladder, wipe dry and lie on a clean, dry bed for half an hour to an hour - if the sheet gets wet in a calm position or with a sharp movement, then this is also a sign of amniotic fluid release.
• Purchase an express test at the pharmacy and do everything according to the instructions.

Why is the leakage of amniotic fluid in the second and third semester of pregnancy dangerous?

Leakage of amniotic fluid in the second and third trimester of pregnancy is dangerous with the following conditions and consequences:

1. Increasing the likelihood of infection penetrating the baby.
2. Mechanical effect on the fetus.
3. The penetration of harmful microflora to the crumb.
4. Placental abruption.
5. Fetal hypoxia.
6. Fetal distress syndrome.
7. Premature birth.
8. Bleeding due to placental abruption.
9. Hemorrhage in the brain of a baby in the first days of life.
10. Physical deformities of the fetus due to the pressure of the uterus.
11. Infection of the mother.

Amnishur test to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid

Amnishur - test to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid

• The AmniSure test is a rapid test that can confirm or deny the fact of amniotic fluid leakage.
• You can buy Amnishur at any pharmacy.
• The principle of action of this agent is based on the identification of placental alpha globulin in the secretions, which can only be contained in the amniotic fluid - no other human secret contains this substance.
• The test is so sensitive that it can recognize this alpha globulin even with a minimal amount.
• AmniSure's accuracy is 98.7%.

Instructions for Amnishur test

Instructions for using the Amnishur test:

• We open the box and find inside a test tube with reagents, a swab, a test strip and a test tube rack.
• We take a closed test tube with reagents in our hands and shake it thoroughly.
• When all the substance in the test tube sinks to the bottom, remove the lid from it and set it upright in a special stand.
• We take a tampon in our hands and carefully unpack it so as not to touch its tip.
• We take a tampon in the middle of the handle and insert it into the vagina to a depth of no more than 7 cm.
• We keep the tampon in the vagina for about a minute.
• We remove the tampon from the vagina and lower its tip into the test tube.
• Rinse the tampon in the reagent with rotational movements for about a minute.
• After the specified time has elapsed, remove the tampon from the test tube and dispose of it.
• Take a sealed test strip in our hands and carefully print it.
• Dip the white tip of the test with the arrows drawn into the reagents.
• If there is an abundant leakage of amniotic fluid, then the test will immediately show two strips.
• If the leak was small, then you will have to wait about 10 minutes.
• If there is no leakage, only one strip will remain on the strip.

Attention! After 15 minutes in the liquid, the test result is invalid.

Strip test for amniotic fluid leakage

• Another method for detecting amniotic fluid leakage at home is special test pads.
• The basic principle of this agent is to react to liquids with a high pH level.
• The fact is that the pH of all female secrets often does not exceed 4.5, while the amniotic fluid has a high pH - from 6 to 7.
• Thus, when it comes into contact with a special indicator embedded inside the pad, the amniotic fluid causes a change in its color.
• You don't have to worry about the indicator, as it is protected by two layers of special material and does not come into contact with the female body.
• On the inside of the gasket, its presence can only be determined by the yellow stripe located in the middle.

How the test strip works:

• Carefully print the gasket and take it out with clean, dry hands, being careful not to touch the yellow line.
• We fix the pad on the underwear so that the yellow stripe runs strictly in the center of the vagina.
• We put on underwear and go about our business.
• After 12 hours or if you feel a heavy discharge, remove the test pad from the laundry.
• We analyze the stains formed on the gasket.
• If there are green or blue spots on the pad, we can talk about leakage of amniotic fluid.
• If there are no stains on the pad test, then there is no leakage.

Note! Blue and green spots can also appear due to a woman having vaginal infections, so this result should be reported to the doctor in any case.

How to distinguish amniotic fluid leakage from discharge, urine?

There are several ways to distinguish the leakage of amniotic fluid from discharge and urine:

• By color - the amniotic fluid is colorless.
• By smell - fertile waters either do not smell at all or have an unobtrusive, special smell.
• Using the Amnishur test.
• Using test pads.
• Control the emission as much as possible - the leakage cannot be delayed.
• By changing the position of the body - during physical exertion or a sharp change in the position of the body, as a rule, water leakage occurs.

Is amniotic fluid leakage visible on ultrasound?

Is it possible to see the leakage of amniotic fluid on an ultrasound scan?

Ultrasound examination will not be able to fix a gap in the fetal bladder. However, this type of diagnosis is able to identify low water, which is the result of leakage of amniotic fluid. It is also possible to identify the involuntary withdrawal of fetal fluid in dynamics when, from research to research, the amount of amniotic fluid becomes less and less.

For how long and how long can amniotic fluid leak?

• In the first trimester of pregnancy, the amount of amniotic fluid is so small and imperceptible in a woman's abdomen that its leakage is almost impossible.
• Leakage of amniotic fluid can begin in the first half of the second trimester. These conditions are considered very complex and almost incorrigible.
• In the second half of the second and first half of the third trimester, with the timely detection of fetal fluid leakage, doctors try to delay the moment of delivery as much as possible.
• In late pregnancy, when amniotic fluid is leaking, a woman has no choice but to simply show her baby to the world.
• The leakage of amniotic fluid can last from half a day to two weeks.
• True, in some women, with minimal and rare cases of water leakage, their volume has time to recover, which is not a critical condition.
• However, even such women need to be constantly monitored by doctors.

Is it possible to stop the leakage of amniotic fluid?

• If leaks of amniotic fluid were detected from 36 to 40 weeks of pregnancy, then, as a rule, the woman begins to prepare for childbirth.
• If rupture or excessive leakage of amniotic fluid is found before 22 weeks, then a miscarriage is likely to be diagnosed.
• If the water leaks in the period from 22 to 36 weeks, then the doctors will do everything possible to support the mother and the fetus until the full development of the crumbs of the lungs.

As a rule, in such cases, it is assigned:

• Antibiotic therapy (to stop or prevent any inflammatory processes in the mother and fetus).
• Hormone therapy (to control labor).
• Bed rest.
• Continuous monitoring of a pregnant woman.
• Monitoring fetal development parameters.

How amniotic fluid leaks before childbirth at 37, 38, 39, 40 weeks?

Immediately on the eve of childbirth, in the event of a rupture of the fetal bladder, a woman may get the impression that she could not restrain herself, and spontaneous urination occurred. In such cases, as a rule, about 150-250 g of liquid is poured out. The gradual leakage of amniotic fluid occurs almost imperceptibly:

• After sleep, when a woman wants to use the toilet, she may mistake a wet stain on her underwear for her incontinence.
• During physical exertion or overexertion, laundry can also get wet.
• If a woman lies, and then suddenly changes her body position, a little liquid may spill out of her.

Amniotic fluid leakage: what to do?

• As soon as a woman detects a spontaneous premature release of amniotic fluid or the prerequisites for it, she should immediately inform her doctor about it.
• It is also advisable to independently conduct one of the pharmacy express tests.
• It is recommended to demonstrate the test results to the gynecologist.
• Leakage of amniotic fluid is a very serious condition, therefore you should not joke with it - only a doctor can provide qualified and timely assistance to a pregnant woman.

Dear women, if you suddenly doubt your discharge or feel that something was wrong, do not delay, but urgently run to your leading specialist. Sometimes a few hours play a very important role in such a scrupulous and responsible business as bearing a baby.

Amniotic fluid leakage: Video

Amniotic fluid leakage is often a cause for concern. future mother... However, not all pregnant women understand what it is and how to distinguish amniotic fluid from vaginal discharge. Let's consider the situation in more detail, let's name the reasons, ways to eliminate the violation.

Amniotic fluid - what is it?

The amniotic fluid is the vital medium for the fetus. By filling the fetal bladder, it prevents trauma to the fetus, creating favorable conditions for it. So directly thanks to her, the baby's body temperature is maintained at the same level. The protection that amniotic fluid provides to the unborn baby is also important.

Its volume is not constant, it increases with the growth of the gestation period. This process is noted throughout the entire gestation period, however, water is produced unevenly. The volume is increasing every week. The maximum is reached around gestation. At this time, the volume of amniotic fluid is 1000-1500 ml. At the same time, immediately before the birth process, its amount decreases.

Why is the leakage of amniotic fluid dangerous?

Amniotic fluid during pregnancy is vital for the unborn baby. A decrease in its volume can lead to irreversible consequences. Among these, doctors distinguish:

• infection of the baby inside the womb;
• development of complications of an infectious nature in the expectant mother:, chorioamniotonitis (inflammation of the membranes of the fetus),;
• premature delivery;
• weak labor activity.

Causes of amniotic fluid leakage

When amniotic fluid leaks during pregnancy, a woman should see a doctor. The main task for physicians is to determine and eliminate the cause of the violation. At the same time, a comprehensive assessment of the situation is carried out. Among possible reasons, allocate:

1. Diseases of an inflammatory and infectious nature in the reproductive system. As a result of such pathogenic processes, there is a thinning of the membranes of the bladder in which the fetus is located. Due to the loss of elasticity, integrity is violated. This is possible with colpitis, endocervicitis.
2. Isthmicocervical insufficiency. With this type of violation, incomplete closure of the cervix is \u200b\u200bnoted. Due to the excess pressure, which is caused by an increase in the size of the fetus, the fetal bladder protrudes into the cervical canal. This leads to a violation of its integrity.
3. Multiple pregnancy. This phenomenon is considered as a factor contributing to the development of the disorder. Due to the increased load on the walls of the fetal bladder, they cannot withstand and are damaged, causing amniotic fluid to leak.
4. Developmental abnormalities, benign or malignant formations in the uterus. The incorrect size of the genital organ, the presence of cysts and tumors in it interfere with the normal growth of the baby, the amniotic membranes. As a result, trauma to the walls may occur.
able to cause the release of amniotic fluid to the outside.

Leakage of amniotic fluid in the early stages

Leakage of amniotic fluid during pregnancy, in its small terms, is fraught with interruption of the process of bearing a baby. If the disorder develops for up to 20 weeks, then the baby cannot be saved. In this case, the fetal membranes become infected, vital processes are disrupted, as a result of which the baby dies. A woman is cleaned of the uterine cavity to prevent infection and life-threatening complications.

Leakage of amniotic fluid in the second trimester

Leakage of amniotic fluid is often fixed for a long time. It is provoked by the increased pressure on the membranes of the fetus, the mass of which increases several times. When a complication of this kind has developed in the first half of the 2nd trimester (up to 22 weeks), doctors are forced to interrupt the gestational process. This helps to avoid complications that adversely affect a woman's health.

If the leakage of amniotic fluid begins after, then in most cases it has a favorable outcome. The pregnant woman is sent to the hospital, where she is under control. Doctors conduct dynamic observation, by conducting an ultrasound scan, examining the state of the bladder shell in a gynecological chair. However, there is no specific treatment. The efforts of doctors are aimed at improving the condition of the pregnant woman. It all depends on how much time has passed since the start of the leak caused by the violation of the shell.

How to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid?

To protect herself and the unborn baby, the pregnant woman must imagine the signs of this disorder. The leakage of amniotic fluid, the symptoms of which may be mild, has an increasing character - as the volume of fluid progresses, the volume of fluid increases. If the breakdown of the membranes occurred in a place located high from the neck, the water flows out scarcely. In such cases, pregnant women may not pay attention to this phenomenon, mistaking it for vaginal discharge. Among the obvious symptoms of leakage, it is worth highlighting:

• sudden, profuse discharge from the vagina;
• a change in the nature of the discharge - they became watery, increased in volume;
• decrease in the volume of the abdomen;
• appearance.

How to distinguish discharge from leakage of amniotic fluid?

To be able to distinguish a violation from the norm, every pregnant woman must clearly understand what the leakage of amniotic fluid looks like. Among the main manifestations:

• an increase in the amount of fluid released during physical activity, movement, change of position;
• the tension of the pelvic muscles does not lead to the cessation of secretions (unlike spontaneous urination).

When the rupture of the bladder is very small, the definition of pathology is possible only with the use of a special test or a smear. Women can diagnose larger tears on their own, at home. For this:

1. Go to the toilet and empty the bladder completely.
2. Thoroughly wash and wipe everything dry.
3. Lay a sheet on the sofa, dry and clean, and lie down on it without underwear.
4. If wet spots appear on the sheet after 15-20 minutes, leakage is likely. The effectiveness of such a simple test is over 80%.

What color is the amniotic fluid when leaking?

The color of amniotic fluid during leakage may be different. This makes it difficult to diagnose the disorder. In most cases, the waters are transparent and have no color, so it is difficult to identify them by marks on the sanitary napkin. Occasionally, the amniotic fluid becomes pinkish. When the amniotic fluid becomes infected, it can become greenish, yellow, and cloudy. However, in such cases, another clinic is noted, which helps to diagnose pathology.

Test to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid

A pregnant woman can diagnose a pathological condition using special means. There are pads for detecting amniotic fluid leakage. Their action is based on changing the color of the indicator, depending on the environment with which contact has occurred. Initially, it is yellow (corresponds to a vaginal pH of 4.5). Other liquids give it a greenish-blue color. Amniotic fluid has the highest pH. This allows you to diagnose the leakage of scanty amniotic fluid.

Tests for leakage of amniotic fluid

Talking about how to recognize the leakage of amniotic fluid, doctors note that it is difficult to do this with a small volume of them. In such cases, a violation is diagnosed by laboratory methods, including:

• smear of vaginal discharge - "fern effect" (drying up the liquid on the slide forms a pattern similar to the named plant);
• a smear from the posterior fornix of the vagina is a reliable diagnostic method;
• amniotest - based on the intramuscular injection of a dye into the abdomen, which stains the amniotic fluid released to the outside (it is rarely used because of the high risks and cost of the reagent).

Does ultrasound detect amniotic fluid leakage?

Leakage of amniotic fluid, the signs of which are named above, can also be diagnosed using ultrasound. In such cases, on the monitor screen, the doctor assesses the extent of the violation, the localization of the rupture of the amniotic membrane. With a mild disorder, this technique is ineffective due to the impossibility of visualization and the difficulty of detecting a defect in the amniotic fluid.