Signs That Labor Is Starting: How to Know It’s Time

Signs That Labor Is Starting: How to Know It’s Time

As your due date approaches, every twinge can feel like a potential sign. Understanding the difference between your body's final preparations and the true start of labor is crucial for your peace of mind. This guide will help you decode the signals, so you can feel confident and prepared when the big day arrives.

Labor signs can be categorized into two groups: pre-labor (which can happen days or weeks before) and true labor.

Pre-Labor Signs: Your Body is Getting Ready

These signs indicate that your body is preparing for labor, but it's not time to head to the hospital just yet.

1. Lightening or "Dropping":

   • What it is: This is when your baby's head settles into your pelvis. For first-time moms, this can happen several weeks before labor. For others, it may not happen until labor begins.

   • What it feels like: You may notice you can breathe more easily because there's less pressure on your diaphragm. However, you might feel increased pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom. Your belly may also look lower.

2. Loss of the Mucus Plug:

   • What it is: Throughout pregnancy, a thick plug of mucus seals your cervix to prevent infection. As the cervix begins to soften, thin out (efface), and open (dilate) in the days or weeks before labor, this plug is discharged.

   • What it looks like: It can be a thick, stringy, gelatinous blob, ranging from clear to pink or even slightly bloody (this is often called "bloody show"). Losing your mucus plug is a sign that things are moving in the right direction, but it does not mean active labor is starting immediately.

3. Nesting Instinct:

   • What it is: A sudden, surprising burst of energy and an urge to clean, organize, and prepare your home for the baby. This can occur days or hours before labor.

   • What to do: While it's tempting to scrub the entire house, pace yourself! Use this energy wisely to do light tasks and save your strength for labor.

4. Diarrhea or Upset Stomach:

   • What it is: Your body releases prostaglandins to help ripen the cervix, and these hormones can also stimulate your bowels, leading to loose stools.

   • What it means: This is your body's natural way of clearing out your system to make more room for the baby to descend.

Signs of True Labor: It's Time!

These signs indicate that active labor is likely starting, and you should follow your birth plan, which usually includes calling your healthcare provider.

1. Consistent, Progressive Contractions:
   This is the most reliable sign of true labor. Unlike practice contractions (Braxton Hicks), true labor contractions follow a pattern and intensify.

   • True Labor vs. Braxton Hicks:

     • True Labor: Contractions get progressively longer, stronger, and closer together. They don't go away with rest or hydration.

     • Braxton Hicks: Contractions are irregular, don't intensify, and often ease up if you change position, walk, or drink water.

   • The "5-1-1" Rule: A common guideline is to head to your birth place or call your provider when your contractions are about 5 minutes apart, lasting for 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. However, always follow the specific instructions given by your healthcare team.

2. Your Water Breaking (Rupture of Membranes):

   • What it is: The amniotic sac that has protected your baby ruptures, releasing the fluid.

   • What it feels like: It can be a sudden, dramatic gush of fluid or a constant, uncontrollable trickle. It is typically clear and odorless.

   • What to do: Call your healthcare provider immediately if you suspect your water has broken. Note the color, odor, and time it happened, as this is important information for your care team.

When to Call Your Doctor or Midwife

Don't hesitate to contact your provider if you experience any of the following:

• You think your water has broken.

• Your contractions are following the "5-1-1" rule (or the timing your provider advised).

• You notice vaginal bleeding that is more than light spotting (like a period).

• Your baby's movements have significantly decreased.

• You have a severe headache, vision changes, or intense abdominal pain.

Trusting your instincts is also important. If something feels wrong or you're unsure, a call to your provider can offer reassurance and guidance.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, midwife, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your pregnancy or the start of labor. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.