How do you know if its just Discharge and not amniotic fluid?

Question

I have always had not really heavy discharge, but certainly not light. after getting pregnant it has gotten worse. I ran out of pantie liners today (getting some more tomorrow) anyways, my panties are a quite a bit wet. it has the slightest yellow tint to it, no fowl smell, just the regular.... v****a smell. . . I normally don't worry. but I am today lol. He is pretty active. does this happen to anyone else? the whole, lots of discharge thing? and if I am leaking amniotic fluid, how can I tell? I mean, it would be clear yes? and no smell. it's almost 11 at night, to late to call anyone. I'm not exactly worried right now, just thought I would ask, cause I've always had a bit of discharge. Thanks to all who answer forwardly but nicely.

Answer 1

Hmm, mine was clear when it broke an it actually didnt have a smell.  So i am assuming it is all different.  If you arent too worried tonight, just call tomorrow morning.  Unless of course you start having frequent contractions.. but it isnt good to leak if it is the water, so you can always swing by the er.. they are usually pretty quick if you tell them you think your water broke, they will check ya an if its not send ya home.  GL!!

Answer 2

Between discharge, urine, and amniotic fluid it can get confusing because I had an issue with all 3. The discharge will usually be clear or white or even a little yellow and thick. Urine will have well the smell of urine. Fluid will be clear and not smell at all. I had the bigger issue with debating if I was leaking fluid or leaking urine. But I'll tell you when I started leaking fluid I knew it because it was a decent amount and didnt stop.

Answer 3

I had this same problem, I even had it get so watery and mine had such a funny smell that I went into hospital thinking I too was leaking amniotic fluid. The midwives couldn't even say for sure they had to run a test to make sure. One thing they all emphasize is that it is a smell you can't miss. That said sometimes your discharge can give off an odd smell too. If you are really concerned about it go in and get checked they get worried pregnant women in all the time so they won't mind. From what you are saying I would imagine that it is just discharge though.  

Answer 4

Amnio has a very distinct smell to it, very sweet bleachy odor, theres NO mistaken that horrible smell!

ETA ~ To the poster below,,,

"clear, no smell"?

Amnio DOES have an odor to it and is STRAW like in color, not clear!

Answer 5

If it was your amniotic fluid it will still continue to leak and you'll feel like your peeing on yourself, your fluid will keep leaking until the baby is born.  

Answer 6

If you are worried your water broke, no fear. You WILL know. There is no doubt. It kinda feels like a pop, then suddenly there is just no stopping it. It just keeps flowing. As in soaking through a bath towel (folded several times) in a matter of moments.

As for just a leak? If you are concerned about it, talk to your doctor. Only they can say for sure. No one on here can say if your leaking fluid for sure. So if you truly fear your leaking out, talk to your doctor.  

Answer 7

It is probably just discharge which increases in pregnancy.  It is also possible that you have leaked a small amount of urine.  You may not even feel it happening, but it's quite common once your belly starts to show.  (More pressure on the bladder)  Amniotic fluid is (or at least should be) clear or the color of straw and usually has a sweet smell to it.  If you don't notice it continuing to trickle or leak, it is most likely not amniotic fluid.

That being said. it would be a good idea to call and let your Ob know in the morning.  They can do a test on the fluid and determine right then and there whether it is or isn't.  

If you do notice a true leak or trickle of fluid, you should head into L&D to be safe.  Keep up with how the baby is moving also.  Make sure his movements have not lessened or changed.  If they have, then you should go in.

I think what you are experiencing is a normal symptom of pregnancy.  But, call and give your doc a heads up just to be safe.,

Good Luck!

Answer 8

no need to worry, but I would ask the Doc if there is anything wrong. I have done so as well, with having 2 babies.. I had a slight discharge as well. but I did get it checked out. Its really no worries, just be careful in what you do. Congrats and good luck )

Answer 9

Clear, no smell and very watery.  

Answer 10

Well, it's normal to have increased vaginal discharge from white to yellow. Amniotic fluid typically is clear to green or brown liquid ( if the baby is distressed and later into the pregnancy). I'm 39 weeks and well, I still have the discharge- all normal. You would know the difference if you had a light gush. if you are really worried, you can have your OB/gyn check you at the office. But typically, the discharge increases- stock up on panty liners!