Ruptured membranes and signs of infection
If you are waiting for labour to start, and your waters have broken, then it is important you are aware of any signs of infection. These can be a rise in the woman's body temperature, and sometimes an offensive odour of the waters draining. If you develop a fever, then labour would need to be induced as soon as possible, and antibiotics are usually given intravenously (through the vein), every 4 to 6 hours until the baby is born.
The main organism responsible for causing an infection is Group B Streptococcus (or Strep B). Many women will have had a vaginal swab done at some stage during their pregnancy looking for this. If this test was positive for Strep B, then it would be expected you start on oral antibiotics while you wait for the labour to start. You may wish to read more in
group B strep.
Looking after yourself with 'ruptured membranes'
If you are sent home to await labour, it is important you look after yourself. You need to be aware of not introducing any infection if your waters have broken.
As a basic rule "nothing into the vagina" after your waters have broken.
No sex or swimming. Showers are fine, but baths are probably best avoided until you are in strong established labour, as it could be days before this happens. Check your temperature 2 or 3 times per day. If it is above 37.5 degrees Celsius, it could possibly indicate an infection, so contact your hospital or caregiver.
Eat well and rest, drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day. Foods cooked with garlic and ginger are thought to be good blood purifiers and can boost your immune system. Some women will take
vitamin C ,
vitamin E and
zinc or Echinacea. Check dosages with your caregiver.
Natural therapies for augmenting labour
Given the time limits, try not to feel pressured (we realise this is harder than it sounds). Some women will consider using natural therapies to start their labour.