10 Signs of Labor: How to Know When It’s Time

As your due date approaches, you may wonder how to tell the difference between false labor and the real thing. Labor can look different for every woman, but there are common signs that indicate it's time to prepare for delivery. Here’s a guide to help you recognize when labor is truly starting.

1. Lightening (Baby Drops)

One of the earliest signs of labor is when your baby moves lower into the pelvis, known as "lightening." This often happens a few weeks before labor in first-time pregnancies, making it easier to breathe but increasing pelvic pressure.

2. Frequent and Stronger Contractions

Real labor contractions come at regular intervals and gradually become more intense and closer together. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, which are irregular and fade with movement, true contractions continue regardless of position changes.

3. Lower Back Pain and Cramps

Many women experience a dull ache in the lower back or menstrual-like cramps that intensify as labor progresses. This discomfort often radiates from the lower back to the abdomen.

4. Bloody Show and Mucus Plug Discharge

Losing the mucus plug, a thick piece of mucus sealing the cervix, can be a sign of labor. This may appear as a pink, brown, or bloody discharge known as the "bloody show."

5. Water Breaking

The rupture of the amniotic sac ("water breaking") is a key sign of labor. It can be a sudden gush or a slow trickle of fluid. If your water breaks, note the color and odor of the fluid and contact your healthcare provider immediately.

6. Increased Pelvic Pressure

As the baby moves lower into the birth canal, you may feel more pelvic pressure and a sensation similar to needing to have a bowel movement.

7. Diarrhea or Loose Stools

Hormonal changes before labor can cause loose stools or diarrhea. This is your body’s way of clearing out the digestive system in preparation for delivery.

8. Sudden Burst of Energy (Nesting Instinct)

Some women experience a surge of energy and an urge to clean and prepare for the baby. While this is normal, it’s important to conserve energy for labor.

9. Cervical Changes

During prenatal visits, your doctor may check for cervical dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning). These changes indicate that the body is preparing for labor.

10. Changes in Vaginal Discharge

An increase in vaginal discharge, especially if tinged with blood, can signal that labor is approaching.

When to Go to the Hospital

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the "5-1-1" rule is a good guideline:

• Contractions are 5 minutes apart

• Each contraction lasts 1 minute

• This pattern continues for 1 hour If you experience this, or if your water breaks, have heavy bleeding, or notice decreased fetal movement, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Final Thoughts

Every labor experience is unique, and these signs may not appear in the same order for everyone. Trust your instincts and reach out to your doctor or midwife with any concerns.

Sources:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): www.acog.org

• Mayo Clinic: www.mayoclinic.org

• National Institutes of Health (NIH): www.nih.gov