Signs of Labor

If you are pregnant and nearing your due date, you may be wondering how to tell if you are in labor. Labor is the process of giving birth to your baby, and it involves several stages and symptoms that can vary from person to person. Knowing the signs of labor can help you prepare for your delivery and know when to seek medical attention.

The signs of labor can be divided into two categories: early signs and active signs.

Early signs of labor are subtle changes that indicate that your body is getting ready for labor. These signs can start days or even weeks before the big event. These early signs include:

• Your baby dropping lower in your pelvis. This is also called lightening or engagement, and it means that your baby is moving into a head-down position that is optimal for birth.
• Losing your mucus plug. This is a thick plug of mucus that seals your cervix during pregnancy. As your cervix begins to soften and open (dilate), you may notice some blood-tinged mucus coming out of your vagina. This is also called bloody show.
• Having Braxton Hicks contractions. These are irregular, painless contractions that tighten and relax your uterus. They are different from true labor contractions because they do not get stronger, longer, or closer together over time.
• Experiencing nausea and/or diarrhea. These symptoms may be caused by hormonal changes or increased pressure on your digestive system as your baby moves down.

Active signs of labor are more obvious changes that indicate that you are in true labor. These signs usually start within 24 to 48 hours before delivery. These active signs include:

• Having regular contractions. These are strong, painful contractions that come at regular intervals (such as every five minutes) and last for about a minute each. They do not go away even when you change position or move around. They also get stronger, longer, and closer together over time.
• Feeling pain in your lower back or abdomen. This pain may resemble menstrual cramps or a dull ache, or it may radiate from your back to your front or vice versa. It may also increase with each contraction.
• Having your water break. This is when the amniotic sac that surrounds your baby ruptures and releases fluid from your vagina. The fluid may be clear, pinkish, or brownish, and it may come out as a gush or a trickle.