Test for water leakage in a pharmacy. How to detect leakage of amniotic fluid using test pads and amniotests. Test pads and their effectiveness

Test pad for determining the leakage of amniotic fluid (amniotic fluid) in the vaginal discharge of a pregnant woman

According to statistics, in at least 10% of pregnancies, premature rupture of the membrane occurs, which can lead to premature birth, intrauterine infection and other complications. Leaking amniotic fluid cannot always be detected with a traditional clinical examination (if the loss of water is slow or intermittent), and therefore confirmation with a diagnostic test can be very useful. The FRAUTEST test is recommended both during normal pregnancy and during high-risk pregnancy. Many women experience urinary incontinence in the third trimester of pregnancy, which is often confused with leakage of amniotic fluid.

Leakage of amniotic fluid increases the risk of infection for both mother and baby, and early diagnosis can help:

– prevent complications or premature birth;

– determine a possible rupture of the membranes;

– contact the maternity ward in a timely manner;

OPERATING PRINCIPLE

FRAUTEST amnio is a non-invasive self-diagnosis test that can be easily used at home. The test is able to distinguish amniotic fluid from heavy vaginal discharge and urine, preventing often unnecessary visits to the doctor that can be considered a “false alarm.”

The test pad consists of a conventional pad containing a test strip containing a proprietary polymer containing a colorimetric indicator that changes color from yellow to green-blue when in contact with liquids with a high pH value. Normally, vaginal pH is 3.8-4.5, amniotic fluid pH is 6.5-7. The test pad changes color when it comes into contact with a liquid that has a pH level greater than 5.5.

The test distinguishes amniotic fluid from urine by using a polymer matrix that uses a special composition of ingredients that revert the color change back to yellow when reacting with concentrations of ammonia found in urine.

The pH indicator is bonded to the polymer and is located inside between the two absorbent layers of the pad. Physical contact of the woman’s body with the diagnostic components is completely absent.

TESTING

Before testing, make sure that the test package is sealed and should be opened immediately before testing. Each test is for one time use only.

1. Open the foil pouch with dry hands and remove the test pad.

2. Glue the pad onto your underwear (Fig. 1). The yellow insert should be against the vagina. The test pad can be worn like a regular pad for 12 hours or can be removed sooner as soon as you feel leakage.

RESULT ASSESSMENT

Grade results should be carried out in a well-lit place.

Positive result

If blue or green spots of any intensity, size, shape or location appear on the pad, this means that the leaking liquid is most likely amniotic fluid. The spots may be indistinct and more intense at the edges of the yellow stripe.
Note: The pad also turns blue or green in case of bacterial vaginal infections (such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis). In any case, if you receive a positive result, consult a doctor immediately.

If the pad has not changed color, this means that the tested fluid is urine or vaginal discharge and there is no leakage of amniotic fluid. Any minimal amount of leaking amniotic fluid will leave visible stains on the pad.
Positive test results should be reported to your healthcare provider. The color is stable for 48 hours. If the test result remains negative and heavy discharge continues, you should consult a doctor.

ATTENTION

If you suspect you have a bacterial vaginal infection (such as bacterial vaginosis or trichomoniasis), you should see your doctor because the test result may be a false positive. Confirmation of the presence of a vaginal infection can be assessed using standard diagnostic procedures (smear collection).

If there is bleeding, you may need specialist help when reading the results.

If you experience any discomfort or skin irritation, stop using the pad immediately.

Advantages of this test:

Self-monitor for the presence of slow or periodic leakage, prevent complications or premature birth, and promptly consult a doctor.
- Highly sensitive and non-invasive (without internal intervention) research method.
- Lack of direct contact of mucous membranes with diagnostic reagents.
- One pad provides monitoring for 12 hours.
- Can be used in any conditions. Simple and easy to understand result.
- The result lasts for 48 hours.
- Continuous accumulation of waters (even if the waters are released slowly, in small doses and inconsistently), rather than spot checking, as is the case with other tests.
- Maintaining calmness ensured by self-control.

Many expectant mothers are afraid of missing the moment of leakage of amniotic fluid, which is due to a complete lack of knowledge about the symptoms and causes that accompany this phenomenon.

The worst thing is that such a pathology can be mistaken by a woman for an ordinary “daub”, since it occurs almost unnoticed and only a few drops of liquid can be released over a long period.

A routine examination by a gynecologist will not be able to provide specific information about whether the woman who applied to her has premature rupture of amniotic fluid or not. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct an analysis for leakage of amniotic fluid, which consists of studying smears from the posterior fornix of pregnancy. A positive result will depend on the presence of not only vaginal discharge, but also particles of the desired component.

This method is gradually beginning to replace the so-called test for leakage of amniotic fluid, which has become widespread among obstetricians and gynecologists since 2006.

Rapid test for amniotic fluid

It makes sense to use this device only if you suspect or have symptoms indicating premature release of amniotic fluid. It is the test for the discharge of amniotic fluid that will show the presence of the component being studied in the vaginal discharge, and the reliability of the data is almost 100%. This accuracy is explained by the reaction of the constituent substance to the placental microglobulin protein, which is one of the components of amniotic fluid.

The choice of this reagent is based on the significance of this protein, namely:

• its minimum content in the blood;
• a small amount of α1microglobulin in the secretions of the cervix and vagina;
• predominantly found in amniotic fluid.

Application of the amniotic fluid leak test

This method absolutely does not require additional tools or devices. It is enough to collect a smear of vaginal flora by using a swab, which is then placed in a specially designed tube with a reagent. Within literally one minute, the substance in the test tube determines the presence of placental microglobulin. Then you need to place the indicator strip that comes with the kit into the container. If the amniotic fluid test shows one line, then there is no need to worry, and no pathologies were found. The presence of two stripes is an alarming signal, symbolizing that leakage is taking place. The absence of any identification marks on the test does not indicate its inappropriate quality and requires additional testing with products from another manufacturer.

Advantages of amniotic fluid self-monitoring indicator tests

The effectiveness and efficiency of using this method has been confirmed by absolutely all medical institutions. The positive aspects of such a test for the presence of amniotic fluid are:

The amniotic fluid test is truly a one-of-a-kind method for detecting amniotic fluid leakage that can be used both at home and in a hospital setting.

However, if a pregnant woman experiences symptoms such as body poisoning, vomiting, pain in the lower abdomen, etc., then there is no point in conducting an amniotic fluid test. It is better to immediately contact a doctor observing pregnancy.

An obstetrics problem that leads to... According to statistics, 1 in 10 pregnant women suffers from this complication, and every fourth of them suffers pregnancy much earlier than their due date. But how to understand that amniotic fluid is leaking and you are at risk, we will look at in the article.

How to tell if leaks have started

Determining such a problem is not an easy process, since liquid leaks in small portions. Most often, a woman thinks that this is normal urinary incontinence or. Even if you know the symptoms and have identified their presence in yourself, this does not yet indicate a problem such as leakage of amniotic fluid with 100% probability.

Important! Women who are pregnant for the second time are more susceptible to this phenomenon.

Signs include:

• change in abundance and consistency;
• an increase in the intensity of discharge if the position of the body changes.

As amniotic fluid leaks, the pregnant woman's abdomen decreases or the height of the uterine fundus decreases. If you notice any of the above symptoms, you should consult a doctor to conduct tests for leakage.

Water leak test: instructions

Since the symptoms of leakage are not at all unique and may indicate other similar problems, such as inflammation, diagnosis requires the use of special methods.
There are several varieties of them for determining the leakage of amniotic fluid:

• Amnishur test;
• study ;
• gynecological examination;
• arborization effect.

Purchased

The simplest and most reliable method aimed at determining the leakage of amniotic fluid is a litmus strip test. It can be purchased at any pharmacy.
The test is completed with a litmus strip (almost the same as in), a bottle with a reagent and a swab. A tampon is needed to collect material from the vagina. Next, it is placed in the reagent, the bottle is closed and shaken. After that, lower the strip there and evaluate the result:

• 1 strip - no leakage;
• 2 stripes - water is leaking.

Important!Even if the second line is very fuzzy, there is cause for concern and you should consult a doctor.

How to do without a test

In addition to the test, leakage can be determined during a gynecological examination. This is not particularly effective, but it is acceptable. The arborization effect can also be used to identify the presence of a problem. The doctor takes a smear and evaluates the result by the discharge that has dried on the glass. If he sees a crystalline pattern of a fern leaf, then the liquid is amniotic fluid.

In addition, cytological studies of the taken biological material, as the most reliable method, help determine the presence of leakage of amniotic fluid. If you are not sure that there is a problem, there is no test at hand, and you are not in a hurry to go to the doctors for an examination, you can determine whether the water is leaking at home.

Did you know?The taste and smell of amniotic fluid carries information for the child about the well-being and emotional state of his mother.

To do this, you need to purchase a gasket or take regular white cotton fabric. With daily pads everything is simple. Attach it to your underwear and after 3-4 hours evaluate the result: the amniotic fluid is completely absorbed.

If there is no gasket, it can be made from white cotton fabric. The pad should be thick and placed on the underwear. If everything is ready, lie down for 30 minutes:

• 10 min. - on the left side;
• 10 min. - to the right;
• 10 min. - on the back.

What is the danger of POV

Water leakage is dangerous for the female body not only due to premature birth, but also the following complications.

The test for leakage of amniotic fluid allows you to diagnose pathology or the onset of labor. Timely detection of bladder rupture is necessary to avoid the development of complications.

Water leakage from 38 to 40 weeks is not dangerous. According to the doctor's recommendations, pregnancy is prolonged or labor is induced. The discharge of amniotic fluid in the second trimester is considered a pathology and is associated with intrauterine infections. Rupture of the bladder before week 20 is considered a miscarriage and termination of pregnancy is recommended.

1. inflammation of the genital organs, cervix, bladder;
2. injuries associated with falling, careless sex;
3. polyhydramnios;
4. hormonal imbalances;

The degree of danger is determined by the duration of pregnancy. Up to 36 weeks, pathology leads to adverse consequences for mother and child.

Possible complications:

• abortion;
• death of an infant;
• development of bleeding;
• fetal asphyxia;
• physical injuries and deformities.

The greatest danger is water leakage at a period of less than 22 weeks. In this case, abortion occurs spontaneously or is performed for medical reasons.

How to check your water before giving birth:

1. gynecological examination. It is determined whether fluid is leaking from the cervical canal;
2. smear. To do this, water is placed on the glass; if a film forms after drying, then the result is positive;
3. aminotest. A puncture is made through the abdomen and an indigo-carmine solution is injected. After 30 minutes, a tampon is inserted into the vagina; if it is colored, it means there is leakage;
4. procedure using dry cloth. The pregnant woman lies down on dry sheets and lies for 15-20 minutes. The appearance of wet spots indicates a rupture of the bladder;
5. gaskets and indicators.

The simplest method is to do a test purchased at a pharmacy. The method is effective and does not take much time.

Types of tests and principle of operation

Any test to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid is based on the reaction to an alkaline environment. The result takes a few minutes.

Where to buy a test for leakage of amniotic fluid? You can purchase the indicator in online stores and pharmacies.

What is the test for leakage of amniotic fluid called? There are many types. For example, Anna, Frautest, Amnio Quick. When purchasing, you need to rely on the research methodology.

What are the tests for leakage of amniotic fluid:

• test system. A complex, effective method for determining amniotic fluid. The system is based on identifying high concentrations of proteins;
• stripes. In appearance they resemble panty liners. They are worn for a certain period of time.

How much does a test for amniotic fluid leakage cost? The average price in a pharmacy is from 500 to 2000 rubles. The cost depends on the manufacturer, guarantee of results, method of use.

What does the test for leakage of amniotic fluid look like:

1. in the form of a daily pad;
2. as a pregnancy strip;
3. long cotton swab.

The principle of operation is that the gasket or strip is impregnated with a substance that changes color when exposed to water. The test system is sensitive to proteins and is based on the immunochromatographic method. The gaskets determine the reaction to the acid level of the environment.

Rules for use at home

Each indicator comes with instructions in Russian. It describes in detail the method of application. The kit also includes a test tube, strip or stick, and solvent.

How to use the amniotic fluid leak test:

1. carry out hygiene procedures. Wipe the vaginal area dry;
2. if a tampon is included, it is necessary to insert 5 cm into the uterus and leave for a minute;
3. take it out and dip it into the solution. Then the strip is dropped into the test tube. Two stripes will mean leakage, one – there is no cause for concern;
4. an indicator in the form of a pad is attached to underwear and left for up to 10 hours. The water will change the color of the applied reagent from yellow to blue-green;
5. When performing the procedure, hands must be dry and clean.

The test is done immediately after the pregnant woman thinks that the amniotic sac has ruptured. Timely diagnosis will avoid complications and pathology of fetal development.

When purchasing a test strip to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid, pay attention to:

• packaging integrity;
• best before date;
• ease of use;
• time for the result to appear.

The effectiveness depends on how long ago the bubble ruptured. A positive test for leakage of amniotic fluid at any stage of pregnancy requires contacting a gynecologist or maternity hospital. The volume of fluid released is unstable and depends on the week of gestation.

Test pads

Leakage of amniotic fluid may not be noticed due to the small amount. The pad test for determining leakage of amniotic fluid is the simplest method for determining pathology.

The FRAUTEST amnio test for detecting amniotic fluid leakage looks like a regular pad. It contains a colorimetric indicator that will change its shade. Cannot be used more than once.

Advantages of FRAUTEST amnio:

1. easy application;
2. affordable price;
3. does not affect the genitals;
4. effective even with the slightest leakage of water.

The downside is that during vaginal infections the indicator changes its color to blue. The color lasts for 48 hours. If the test shows leakage of amniotic fluid, you should contact the doctor who is managing the pregnancy with the result.

The test for leakage of amniotic fluid Frautest is sold in pharmacies. The average price for one package is 450 rubles. Store the tests in a dry place to prevent moisture.

AL-SENSE differs from its analogues in the presence of a case for drying the indicator strip. After use, the liner is removed from the gasket. It is placed in a case for half an hour. A dry line that has changed color is a positive result.

Test systems

Diagnostic systems are effective when part of the water has broken, which makes it possible to accurately determine the rupture of the membranes. Hospitalization to the pathology department and medical observation is recommended.

The test kit for determining the leakage of amniotic fluid includes:

• instructions;
• test tube;
• sterile swab;
• strip in a sealed bag.

You can use the test for leakage of amniotic fluid at any time. The main thing is to carry out hygiene procedures before use.

1. sensitivity: 98.9%;
2. quick results;
3. ease of use.

A test for leakage of amniotic fluid is used in the maternity hospital or at home. The procedure is carried out in vitro (in vitro), that is, without taking drugs orally.

• high price;
• False results are possible if more than 12 hours have passed since the sheath ruptured.

The AmniSure ROM Test is up to 99% accurate. The results are not affected by vaginal infections. The cost of a test for leakage of amniotic fluid in a pharmacy is about 2 thousand rubles.

The procedure time does not exceed 3 minutes for abundant effusion, 10 minutes for partial effusion. The results of the Amnishur test for determining the leakage of amniotic fluid are visible based on the number of strips. One is negative, two are positive.

AmnioQuick (Amnio Quick) is produced in France. Based on a reaction with the substance protein-1, which is contained in the amniotic fluid. The effectiveness of this type is lower than that of AmniSure.

Probability of error

Not a single home test for leakage of amniotic fluid gives a 100% result. Errors can occur due to improper use, defective goods, infections and pathologies.

Possible deviations:

1. bacterial diseases of the genital organs lead to a false positive result;
2. improper use, non-compliance with instructions - false negative;
3. a lack of reaction is possible if a large amount of time has passed since the bubble burst.

Insufficient personal hygiene also leads to disruption of the research procedure. Some medications change the composition and pH level of uterine secretions.

What causes test system errors:

• bleeding;
• time after rupture of the bladder over 48 hours;
• The expiration date of the strip has expired, the packaging is damaged;
• misuse;
• postponed deadline.

You cannot use the indicator immediately after taking a shower, sexual intercourse, or suppositories for treatment. Diseases of the reproductive system and HIV infections can give false results.

If a pregnant woman has concerns about the release of amniotic fluid, it is necessary not only to conduct a test, but also to do an ultrasound. It will allow you to accurately determine the amount of water and whether there is a tear in the bubble.

The only test for leakage of amniotic fluid in the clinic is 100% reliable - amniocentesis. This method has a number of disadvantages and is used in rare cases. A puncture of the abdomen and cavity of the fetal egg injures the membranes and causes the risk of developing infections.

How to do without a test

You can determine water at home without a pharmacy test. There are several methods that have been used since ancient times. The main sign of leakage and overflow of fluid is thin streams flowing down the legs without ceasing. On average, 400 ml flows out.

A method using a cotton sheet or cloth is effective. It is recommended to jump before doing this.

Express test for leakage of amniotic fluid using a sheet:

1. a white, clean cloth is spread on the bed;
2. carry out a hygienic procedure. Wipe dry;
3. lie down, changing body position every 15 minutes;
4. total time at least 2 hours;
5. If wet spots appear, it means that liquid is leaking.

The disadvantage of this method is that heavy vaginal discharge is also visible on the tissue. The best solution would be to buy a pharmacy test or visit a doctor. From 38 weeks, regular pads are used to determine whether the bladder has ruptured. If within 15-20 minutes she is completely wet, then labor has begun.

Using an ultrasound, a specialist determines oligohydramnios and fetal heartbeat. However, the study does not allow us to accurately diagnose whether the bladder has ruptured.

Women expecting twins should pay special attention to pathology. Children, gaining weight, are able to disrupt the integrity and tightness of the membranes of the bladder. Even a slight loss of fluid causes a lack of oxygen in the fetus.

Treatment and prevention

In the early stages, fluid leakage from the amniotic sac requires observation and prolongation of pregnancy. To do this, tocolytics are prescribed to prevent early, premature birth.

Signs of leakage:

• increased volume of vaginal discharge;
• decreased fetal activity;
• cloudy liquid;
• pain in the lower abdomen.

From 38 to 40 weeks, the pathology does not pose a danger to mother and baby. Obstetricians prescribe cesarean or natural childbirth depending on full term and physiological characteristics.
In the early stages, up to 26 weeks, in most cases it is not possible to save the baby. The uterus becomes infected, the fetus dies, and sepsis develops.

Outpouring classification:

1. timely - when the cervix opens, contractions;
2. premature – the uterus is not ready, period 39-40 weeks;
3. early - up to the 3rd trimester.

In conditions of full-term pregnancy, any rupture of the bladder is normal. This leads to the onset of labor and starts contractions.

Preventive measures:

• avoid heavy physical activity;
• prevent abdominal injury;
• in case of isthmic-cervical insufficiency, apply sutures to the neck;
• eliminate foci of infection;
• visit your doctor regularly.

Tests for rupture of water will allow a woman to determine the presence of pathology. Gaskets and systems with indicators are effective at home and have an accuracy of at least 98%. If there is a problem at any time, you need to contact a medical facility.

The period of waiting for a baby is the most joyful and exciting time in the life of any woman. A lot of amazing things happen in 9 months - these are two lines on the test, the first ultrasound and the sound of your baby’s heart, a growing belly and the first, still timid movements. However, it happens that during pregnancy a woman is bothered by various symptoms. One of the most dangerous for both mother and child is leakage of amniotic fluid.

Amniotic fluid, or amniotic fluid, is a biologically active environment that surrounds the fetus and ensures its normal functioning.

The formation of the amniotic sac occurs in the eighth week of pregnancy, and subsequently its volume increases due to the accumulation of amniotic fluid.

The volume of amniotic fluid is directly related to the length of pregnancy. It reaches its maximum value at 37-38 weeks and is 1-1.5 liters. By the end of the period, it may again drop to 0.8 liters.

At the beginning of pregnancy, amniotic fluid looks like a clear liquid. Subsequently, its properties and appearance change, and it becomes cloudy. Amniotic fluid performs the following functions:

• protects the fetus;
• allows the baby to move freely;
• protects the umbilical cord from compression;
• nourishes the fetus;
• maintains pressure and temperature mode;
• protects against the penetration of infections.

Leakage of amniotic fluid

The rupture of amniotic fluid occurs as a result of disruption of the membranes of the fetal bladder. These may be small tears or cracks from which amniotic fluid oozes slightly. It is worth noting that water may flow out very little at a time, which is quite difficult to recognize even during an examination by a gynecologist.

Normal discharge of water is typical only for the first stage of labor if the pregnancy is full-term. In other cases, it is a pathology.

Sometimes amniotic fluid begins to leak much earlier than expected. Most often this occurs as a result of an inflammatory process caused by infections. Released little by little, the waters mix with the secretions, and it is very difficult to distinguish them, since they have neither color nor odor. However, light discharge is no less dangerous than massive discharge. Because, without noticing them, a woman may not seek medical help in a timely manner, and this is fraught with complications.

Symptoms

If there is excessive leakage of amniotic fluid, then the symptoms are obvious - this is warm water flowing down the legs, which cannot be contained. However, leakage can also be dripping.

Most likely, rupture of amniotic fluid occurs if:

• the liquid is odorless;
• it is transparent, but may be mixed with mucus, bloody or white discharge;
• leaks regularly;
• unable to control;
• the discharge is watery and also more abundant;
• outpouring occurs during sudden movements, turns, coughing, laughter;
• accompanied by discomfort and spasms.

Amniotic fluid can easily be confused with the following vaginal discharge:

1. Urine. As a result of decreased tone of the pelvic floor muscles, urinary incontinence occurs. This happens especially often in the long term, when the uterus puts a lot of pressure on the bladder.
2. Discharge:
   • In the presence of . Due to inflammation that is caused by a foreign object in the vagina.
   • For infections. As a result of the infectious process, vaginal secretions become more abundant. Transparent, white, yellow, green colors.
3. Mucus plug. Shortly before birth, the mucous plug comes off, which covered the cervix and protected it from infections. Often, cork has a liquid consistency, so it can easily be confused with water.

As a rule, it is not amniotic fluid if the discharge:

• have a yellow tint to urine;
• have an ammonia smell;
• characterized by short-term leakage;
• They have a slimy consistency that does not seep through the pad.

Leakage of amniotic fluid may be indicated by the continuity of fluid discharge, as well as the moisture experienced even after urination.

Causes

There are many reasons why the membranes become damaged and amniotic fluid begins to leak. Often, even a medical examination cannot accurately determine why this happens. Leakage may be due to:

• premature rupture of membranes during a previous premature pregnancy;
• uterine bleeding during this pregnancy;
• long-term treatment with glucocorticoids (prednisolone, dexamethasone, metipred);
• systemic connective tissue diseases;
• chronic inflammatory diseases of the female reproductive system;
• habitual miscarriage;
• isthmic-cervical insufficiency;
• placental abruption;
• abnormalities in the development of the uterus, for example, its doubling or bicornuity;
• inflammation of the membranes;
• multiple pregnancy.

Diagnostics

To detect leakage of amniotic fluid, the following tests are performed:

1. Ultrasonography. A careful longitudinal scan may reveal polyhydramnios or oligohydramnios. Calculation of the amniotic fluid index also helps to determine. However, oligohydramnios is possible only with significant fluid loss. If there are small tears or cracks, then the volume of water may be normal, but the damage itself cannot be seen using ultrasound. Therefore, this method is not always informative.
2. Cytological examination. To carry it out, vaginal discharge is applied to a glass slide. Using a special method, the glass is stained and then evaluated under a microscope. If damage to the amniotic sac occurs, fetal skin cells will be found.
3. Arborization smear. Vaginal discharge is examined for the presence of fern sign. When the mucus in the cervix dries, it forms crystals. This occurs as a result of changes in its properties under the influence of hormones contained in the amniotic fluid. The secretions are applied to glass, dried, and then crystallization is assessed under a microscope. If a picture appears that looks like fern leaves, then the liquid is leaking.
4. Amnitest. The most effective way to determine the leakage of amniotic fluid. It is carried out in a antenatal clinic or maternity hospital during the examination procedure. Its essence lies in the presence of placental alpha-1-microglobulin in vaginal discharge. This substance is found in amniotic fluid, but is practically absent in normal secretions. A special tampon that has absorbed vaginal secretions is placed in the solution. Then the swab is removed and a test strip is dipped into the substance. If a control line is displayed on it, then the test is positive and the membranes are damaged.

Determination at home

If you suspect leakage of amniotic fluid, it is recommended to immediately consult your doctor. However, circumstances may vary. Therefore, in order not to worry, it is better to conduct the study at home. You can do this using:

1. Diaper test. Before you start, you should urinate and then take a shower. Then you need to lie down, placing a diaper under your buttocks. If liquid appears on it in the next half hour, this will indicate an overflow.
2. Pharmacy tests. They come in several types:
   1. Litmus strips. They serve to determine the acidity of vaginal secretions. To carry out the test, you need to apply a litmus strip to the vaginal wall - it will change its color. It will need to be compared with the scale sold with the test. If the pH level is from 3.8 - 4.5, then this is normal acidity. If it is higher, from 6.5 - 7.0, this means that either water is leaking or there is an infection. In any case, you will need to consult a doctor.
   2. Nitrazine test. It is available in both tampon and pad forms. The substance applied to the test is nitrazine. The indicator, as in the case of litmus strips, reacts to acidity. If the pH is greater than 6.5, the tampon or pad will turn blue, and, therefore, the likelihood of leakage is high. To determine the gap, you can use the Frautest amnio test. It is a special gasket, but no different in appearance from a regular one. It has a special strip that reacts to the pH of vaginal discharge. You can distinguish water from urine or discharge.
   3. Alpha-1 microglobulin test. The AmniSure ROM Test is similar to the amnitest performed in a clinic. You can purchase it yourself at the pharmacy, although at a fairly high price. Its sensitivity is very high, so even a small amount of alpha-1-microglobulin in the liquid will give a positive reaction.
   4. Protein-1 test. It can be purchased at a pharmacy, the test is called AmnioQUICK. According to the principle of action, it is similar to AmniSure, but it reacts not to microglobulin, but to protein-1, which is also found in amniotic fluid. However, compared to the previous test, it is 4 times less sensitive. Therefore, if the membranes are not severely damaged, and the fluid only oozes out little by little, then there may be no reaction.

The cost of tests for leakage of amniotic fluid can be quite high; for example, AmniSure costs more than 2 thousand rubles. However, it is important for a pregnant woman to understand that if she suspects leakage of amniotic fluid, she can contact an antenatal clinic. She will definitely get a free test.

What are the consequences of the outpouring?

Damage to the membranes of the membranes can lead to:

• increased risk of chorioamnionitis in a pregnant woman;
• infection of the fetus - sepsis;
• infection of both mother and child;
• increased risk of malpresentation and placental abruption.

If, when water leaks, you do not seek medical help and do not receive timely treatment, then infectious and inflammatory processes will develop within 1.5 days.

If labor begins in a premature pregnancy after rupture of the membranes, it may become more complicated:

• bleeding due to possible placental abruption;
• rapid, or vice versa, protracted nature of the course.

The appearance of a premature baby can lead to the development of:

• cerebral hemorrhages;
• hypoxia;
• deformities due to compression by the uterus, deprived of water;
• distress syndrome.

Treatment methods

It is impossible to cure the rupture of amniotic fluid, and therefore to eliminate the rupture of the membranes. Therefore, medical tactics may be as follows:

1. Duration from 22 to 34 weeks. Expectant management is used to achieve the greatest possible degree of maturity of the baby, but with a low risk of infection. If the baby and mother feel well, the water level is normal, and the leakage has stopped, then the pregnancy is prolonged until full term. If there is no inflammatory process, the amniotic fluid has a normal volume, but fluid leaks, then they try to extend the pregnancy by 1-3 weeks, rarely longer.
2. Period from 34 weeks. Long-term extension of the pregnancy period does not apply. If labor does not begin after 24-36 hours, then the cervix is ​​prepared for labor and labor is induced. The choice of tactics is consistent with the woman. However, after 24 hours without amniotic fluid, the risk of infection increases. As a rule, wait-and-see tactics are used. She assumes that the cervix is ​​prepared, but stimulation is not carried out, waiting for either a change in conditions or an increase in the anhydrous period.

Waiting tactics

Watchful waiting involves the following treatment:

1. The pregnant woman is admitted to the hospital, where she is under constant medical supervision. Her pulse and temperature are regularly measured, and the level of leukocytes in her blood is assessed.
2. A diaper is placed under the buttocks, and then its contents are examined.
3. The doctor prescribes glucocorticoids to prevent distress syndrome in the baby. Betamethasone or dexamethasone is used.
4. Tocolytic therapy is carried out. It allows you to reduce the tone of the uterus and prevent premature labor.
5. Antibacterial drugs are used to prevent infection of the baby, as well as the development of chorioamniotitis in the mother.
6. Drugs are prescribed to prevent hypoxia, for example, Curantil and others.
7. Once every 5 days, vaginal secretions are taken.
8. A CTG is performed every day to monitor the baby’s condition.
9. Once every 3 days, the pregnant woman is sent for an ultrasound with Doppler.

Expectant management is not carried out, but urgent delivery is used if the situation is complicated:

• chorioamniotitis;
• placental abruption;
• bleeding;
• severe oligohydramnios;
• active labor and other reasons.

Prevention

No preventive measures can guarantee that the expectant mother will not encounter pregnancy complications such as rupture of membranes and leakage of amniotic fluid. However, taking the following steps can reduce the risk of their occurrence:

1. Eliminate foci of infection in a timely manner. These include not only inflammation of the genital area, for example, endometritis, colpitis, vulvitis and others, but also pyelonephritis, pharyngitis, periodontitis, etc.
2. If there is a threat of miscarriage, as well as the risk of premature birth, take measures to eliminate them.
3. Consult a doctor in a timely manner at the slightest ailment, including promptly treating ICI.

In order to notice a complication in time and take action, a woman needs to closely monitor her health, including paying attention to vaginal secretions. Normally, it changes as pregnancy progresses, however, in any case, any unusual discharge of fluid should be monitored and diagnostic methods should be used.

In addition, a pregnant woman should understand the full extent of the danger, so one should not neglect contacting a specialist, and if the diagnosis is confirmed, hospital treatment and medical prescriptions.

Finally

Thus, leakage of amniotic fluid poses a greater danger the shorter the pregnancy period. If rupture of the membranes occurred at 38 weeks of pregnancy, then there is no need to worry. The baby is mature enough to be born, and contractions will begin soon or will be stimulated. If effusion occurs from 34 to 37 weeks, then only a doctor can weigh all the risks and assess whether expectant therapy is worthwhile and whether it will worsen the condition of the mother and fetus.

If the period is up to 34 weeks, then the doctor will do everything possible to prolong the pregnancy, but also to prevent a risk to the woman’s life. In any case, at the slightest suspicion, you should contact a medical institution so that a specialist can refute the fears and concerns of the pregnant woman.