After your water breaks, most people go into labor and give birth within a certain timeframe, though it can vary:
- About 70% of people give birth within 24 hours of their waters breaking, and around 90% deliver within 48 hours
- If labor does not start within 24 hours after the water breaks (especially after 37 weeks of pregnancy), healthcare providers often discuss inducing labor to reduce the risk of infection for both mother and baby
- In some cases, labor may begin immediately after the water breaks, or it may take several hours or even a couple of days; however, prolonged time between water breaking and delivery increases infection risk
- If the water breaks before 37 weeks (preterm), careful monitoring and sometimes hospitalization are needed, and delivery timing depends on the baby's condition and risks
- Typically, if contractions have not started within 24 hours after water breaking, medical intervention may be recommended to induce labor
In summary, most babies are born within 24 to 48 hours after the water breaks, with medical teams closely monitoring to manage risks if labor does not start naturally within this period
