What are the key signs that labor is approaching. How does nausea relate to the onset of labor. What are the three main stages of labor and their characteristics. When should you head to the hospital as labor progresses.

Early Signs of Labor: What to Watch For

As expectant mothers approach their due date, identifying the signs of impending labor becomes crucial. While nausea is often associated with early pregnancy, it can also occur as labor approaches. Let’s explore the various symptoms that may indicate the onset of labor.

Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as “practice contractions,” can begin as early as 24 weeks into pregnancy. These contractions involve a tightening of the uterus, causing the abdomen to harden momentarily before relaxing. While they may become more frequent towards the end of pregnancy, they are not necessarily an early sign of labor.

Baby Dropping or Lightening

As the body prepares for childbirth, the baby may move lower into the pelvis. This phenomenon, known as “dropping” or “lightening,” can be particularly noticeable if the baby has been positioned high under the rib cage. This change in position can be a sign that labor is approaching.

Nausea and Gastrointestinal Changes

Contrary to popular belief, nausea isn’t exclusive to the first trimester. Some women experience a return of nausea as labor nears. Additionally, loose stools or diarrhea may occur as the muscles, including those in the rectum, begin to relax in preparation for childbirth.

Active Labor Signs: When Things Get Real

As labor progresses, more definitive signs begin to emerge. These symptoms indicate that the body is actively preparing for childbirth.

Loss of the Mucus Plug

The mucus plug, which protects the cervix from bacteria during pregnancy, may be expelled as the cervix begins to soften and dilate. This discharge can be clear or blood-tinged and may occur days before active labor begins or right before it starts.

Cervical Dilation

During the final weeks of pregnancy, healthcare providers may check for cervical dilation. While some dilation can occur weeks before labor, active labor is typically considered to begin when the cervix is dilated to four centimeters.

Water Breaking

Contrary to dramatic portrayals in movies, the amniotic sac rupturing (commonly known as “water breaking”) is often less sudden and may occur after contractions have already begun. However, if you experience a sudden gush of fluid, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider.

Recognizing Different Types of Labor Pain

Labor pain can manifest in various ways, and understanding these differences can help expectant mothers better prepare for childbirth.

Rhythmic Back Pain

In some cases, particularly when the baby is positioned unusually in the uterus, contractions may be felt as severe, rhythmic back pain. This phenomenon, known as “back labor,” occurs when the uterus pushes against the spine due to the baby’s position.

Progressive Contractions

As labor intensifies, contractions become more frequent, intense, and follow a discernible pattern. When contractions reach a point where it becomes difficult to talk or catch your breath, it’s a strong indication that labor is progressing.

The Three Stages of Labor: A Comprehensive Overview

Understanding the three main stages of labor can help expectant mothers and their partners navigate the childbirth process more confidently.

First Stage: Early Labor and Active Labor

The first stage of labor is the longest and consists of two phases: early labor and active labor. During early labor, contractions begin to occur more regularly, and the cervix starts to dilate. As labor progresses into the active phase, contractions become more intense and frequent, and cervical dilation accelerates.

Second Stage: Pushing and Birth

The second stage of labor begins when the cervix is fully dilated (10 centimeters) and ends with the birth of the baby. This stage involves active pushing and can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours.

Third Stage: Delivery of the Placenta

The final stage of labor involves the delivery of the placenta, which typically occurs within 5 to 30 minutes after the baby’s birth. Mild contractions continue during this stage to help expel the placenta.

When to Head to the Hospital: Timing Your Arrival

Knowing when to go to the hospital is crucial for ensuring proper care during labor. Healthcare providers often recommend using the “4-1-1” rule as a guideline for timing hospital arrival.

The 4-1-1 Rule Explained

The 4-1-1 rule suggests that it’s time to head to the hospital when contractions are:

• 4 minutes apart
• Lasting 1 minute each
• Continuing for at least 1 hour

This rule helps ensure that labor has progressed sufficiently before arriving at the hospital, reducing the likelihood of being sent home or experiencing unnecessary interventions.

Preparing for Hospital Admission: What to Bring

As labor approaches, having a well-prepared hospital bag can make the experience more comfortable and less stressful.

Essential Items for Your Hospital Bag

Consider packing the following items in your hospital bag:

• Comfortable clothing for labor and postpartum
• Personal care items (toothbrush, toiletries, etc.)
• Snacks and drinks for you and your partner
• Phone charger and camera
• Infant car seat for the trip home
• Clothes and diapers for the baby

Remember to pack light and focus on essential items, as hospitals typically provide many necessary supplies.

Coping Strategies for Labor Pain: Techniques and Options

Managing labor pain effectively can significantly impact the childbirth experience. Various techniques and options are available to help women cope with the intensity of labor.

Natural Pain Management Techniques

Many women find relief through natural pain management methods, including:

• Breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
• Movement and position changes
• Massage and counterpressure
• Hydrotherapy (using water for pain relief)
• Visualization and meditation

Medical Pain Relief Options

For those seeking medical interventions for pain management, options may include:

• Epidural anesthesia
• Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
• Intravenous pain medications

Discussing pain management options with your healthcare provider before labor begins can help you make informed decisions during childbirth.

Postpartum Recovery: What to Expect After Childbirth

Understanding the recovery process after childbirth can help new mothers prepare for the physical and emotional changes that follow.

Physical Recovery

Physical recovery after childbirth may involve:

• Vaginal soreness or healing from a cesarean section
• Uterine contractions as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size
• Breast engorgement and initiation of milk production
• Hormonal fluctuations affecting mood and energy levels

Emotional Adjustment

The postpartum period can also bring emotional challenges, including:

• Baby blues or postpartum depression
• Adjusting to new roles and responsibilities
• Sleep deprivation and fatigue
• Changes in relationships with partner and family members

Seeking support from healthcare providers, family, and friends during this time is crucial for a healthy postpartum recovery.

As expectant mothers navigate the final weeks of pregnancy and prepare for childbirth, understanding the signs of labor and the stages of the birthing process can provide valuable reassurance and preparedness. While nausea may be one of many symptoms experienced as labor approaches, it’s essential to focus on the overall pattern of changes and consult with healthcare providers for personalized guidance. By staying informed and prepared, women can approach childbirth with confidence and make informed decisions throughout the labor and delivery process.

Nausea, back pain, and other symptoms to look out for

Did you know nausea is one of the early signs of labour? Here are eight signs of active labour that you should watch out for.

As you approach your due date, every cramp and discomfort can make you wonder: Is this is it? Am I in labour? Is nausea a sign of labour approaching? The truth is, getting that baby out of you is a long process—even if your actual labour is blessedly speedy—and your body starts to prepare weeks before the real deal starts. Here are some signs of labour that you might experience in the lead up to your baby’s arrival.

1. Signs of labour: An increase in Braxton Hicks

These ‘practice’ contractions can start as early as 24 weeks, and are simply a tightening of the uterus. You may feel your entire abdomen harden, and then relax again. These contractions can be uncomfortable, but are typically not painful. Towards the end of your pregnancy they may come more frequently—though they’re not necessarily an early sign of labour

2. Signs of labour: Your baby dropping (also known as lightening)

Your baby might start moving lower into your pelvis as he gets ready to come out. This can be especially noticeable if your baby has been positioned right under your rib cage for the last few weeks. Expect people to exclaim ‘the baby has dropped!’ when they see you.

3. Signs of labour: Nausea, or loose stools

Thought nausea was just in the first trimester? Unfortunately, some women experience it again as labour nears. You might also notice loose stools or diarrhea—all of your muscles start to loosen as you approach labour, and your rectum is one of them (though not every woman will experience this).

You know things are starting to get real if you experience any of the following signs of labour:

4. Signs of labour: You lose the mucus plug

Mucus near the cervix protects the baby from bacteria. As the cervix begins to soften and dilate you can get a mucus discharge—it can be clear or blood tinged—and it might come out right before active labour starts, or days before. Not every mom-to-be notices her mucus plug coming out.

5. Signs of labour: Your cervix is dilating

Towards the end of your pregnancy, you will see your doctor or midwife more often, and she might check to see if your cervix is dilated. But don’t get too excited if she says you’re “a few centimetres.” “You can be two centimetres dilated for weeks without getting contractions,” says Lee Schofield, family doctor at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. It’s considered active labour when you are four centimetres dilated.

6. Signs of labour: Your water breaks

Usually, your water breaking isn’t as dramatic as we see in movies, and will often happen after contractions start, or even in the hospital when you’re already well into labour. But if you do get a sudden gush of fluid it could be your water breaking, signalling that labour is coming. If this happens to you, call your midwife or doctor.

7. Signs of labour: You experience rhythmic back pain

Sometimes, if your baby is lying in an unusual position in your uterus, your contractions might feel more like a severe, rhythmic back pain. “If the uterus is pushing against the spine because the baby is in a different position, you will experience more back labour,” explains Schofield.

8. Signs of labour: Your contractions are more frequent and progressive

Braxton Hicks contractions can come and go and are generally uncomfortable, but not painful. When real contractions start, they get more intense, and there is a pattern. “When you can’t talk through them or catch your breath, if you have to stop and breathe in the moment, that is a sign you are getting there,” says Schofield.

When should you head for the hospital?

You may be tempted to go to the hospital as soon as contractions start, but doctors and midwives encourage you to wait until they become more frequent and intense, especially if it’s your first baby. “We tell women to be on the lookout for the ‘4-1-1’ rule,” says Schofield: “Contractions that are four minutes apart, lasting one minute, and go on for an hour.”

Read more:
Hospital bag checklist
What NOT to bring to the hospital
How to cope during the transition phase of labour

Is Nausea A Sign Of Labor? Maybe Your Baby Is On The Way

In your third trimester of pregnancy, the last thing you need to feel is nauseous. By this point, your back likely hurts, your ankles might be swollen, you’re probably peeing every five minutes. So if you suddenly feel sick to your stomach you might wonder: Am I going into labor?

While a myriad of symptoms are indicative of labor, nausea itself is not one of them Dr. Scott Sullivan, Professor and Vice-Chair of the Department of Ob/Gyn at the Medical University of South Carolina, tells Romper. “It is not what I would say is a reliable indicator,” says Dr. Sullivan.

Nausea Is a Common Part of Pregnancy

Nausea is a very common side effect at the beginning of pregnancy, and commonly referred to as morning sickness. For some women it may continue into the second trimester of pregnancy too, but, Dr. Sullivan says, by the third trimester, it typically goes away.

That said, there’s a small percentage of pregnant women — .3–2% — for whom severe nausea continues throughout the pregnancy. They suffer from what’s called Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), a disorder characterized by “excessive vomiting starting before the end of the 22nd week of gestation,” according to a study published in Autonomic neuroscience journal. The rare condition was recently amplified by comedian Amy Schumer who suffered from HG through the pregnancy of her son Gene and raised awareness for the condition with a revealing documentary called Expecting Amy.

However, more often than not, for those who do experience nausea late in their pregnancy, it’s not a sign of labor, but rather the combination of all the action happening in a woman’s body.

“Having a seven pound human in your abdomen, kicking your liver, your gallbladder, laying on your intestines at your stomach means a lot of people will lose their appetite or they have early satiety build up, meaning they might fill up with two bites or have severe heartburn,” explains Dr. Sullivan. “In fact, some people start having nausea and vomiting because of this.”

So you’re not about to deliver a baby, you’re just feeling sick because of the large child inside of you.

praetorianphoto/E+/Getty Images

Nausea Is Often Experienced During Labor

Incidentally, though not a sign of labor, nausea does often occur during labor. Vomiting can be a common side effect in the midst of delivery.

“It’s a common thing in active labor when people really know they’re in labor,” says Mary Lou Kopas, chief of midwifery at the University of Washington Medical Center. In fact, she says many women will vomit between contractions, sometimes once, sometimes often as labor pains swell. But again, Kopas agrees with Dr. Sullivan that nausea in the days leading up to a delivery date is not an indication of oncoming labor, rather a reaction to it.

What To Do If You Experience Late Stage Nausea

So what should a pregnant woman do if she experiences sudden nausea later in pregnancy? “New onset nausea can be normal, but it can also be an indication of some unusual or rare diseases in pregnancy that are potentially dangerous,” says Kopas. “So it might be something to report. If you haven’t been nauseous in months and you suddenly feel sick, it might be time to do some tests.”

Dr. Sullivan and Kopas recommend reaching out to a medical provider with any concerns.

How To Treat Nausea

If you’re not very concerned about your nausea, just irritated by it, then there are ways to treat it, says Kopas. “Eat something bland. Ginger helps. Don’t go too long between eating,” she advises. “Have small frequent meals.”

She adds that sometimes heartburn can contribute to nausea. For that, it’s fine for women to take an antacid, Kopas says. And avoid trigger foods that might cause heartburn that could contribute to nausea.

Dr. Sullivan also recommends frequent, bland meals and drinking lots of water as a means to avoid nausea. “Of course, there are people for whom that doesn’t cut it. “We have some medication we can give people then.”

Ultimately, pregnant women should try to listen to their bodies. If something feels off or nausea begins to be concerning, contact a provider.

Studies Referenced

Bustos, M., Venkataramanan, R., & Caritis, S. (2017). Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy – What’s new?. Autonomic neuroscience : basic & clinical, 202, 62–72. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.autneu.2016.05.002

Experts:

Dr. Scott Sullivan, Professor and Vice-Chair of the Department of Ob/Gyn at the Medical University of South Carolina

Mary Lou Kopas, chief of midwifery at the University of Washington Medical Center

This article was originally published on 211Z”>Oct. 17, 2018

Signs of Labor: Early Signs & Symptoms Labor is Near

Water breaking? Contractions? Those are both sure signs of labor, but sometimes, the signs labor is approaching are more subtle. A woman’s body almost always gives her the signals she needs and the inner wisdom to recognize them; however, to help you understand them, we’ve compiled a list of the most common signs of labor. Labor prepares your body for the delivery of your baby, and it can start off slowly. Read on to find out when you can expect to go into labor; the differences between real and false labor; and the differences between early and active labor.

When Will I Go Into Labor?

Although your due date is usually set to 40 weeks, when your pregnancy is full term, don’t expect your baby to arrive on the dot.

To start with, your due date may not be accurate ¾ it’s just an estimate, and could be off by as much as two weeks, even if the date was adjusted after an ultrasound. It’s common for most women to go into labor between 38 and 42 weeks.

Just make sure you keep an eye out for the signs of labor below and have your birth plan ready. If you haven’t made a birth plan yet, you can create one easily with our downloadable birth plan template and using our guide on what to include in your birth plan.

If your due date has come and gone, you may be anxious for labor to begin. You might have heard old wives’ tales like castor oil working to induce labor. Experts don’t recommend trying this kind of home remedy. Instead, the best thing to do is to chat with your healthcare provider, if you’re concerned labor hasn’t started yet.

What Are the Signs of Labor Approaching?

It’s very unlikely that you will suddenly go into labor without warning. Your body will let you know that you’re close to the big day, so you can make sure your hospital bag is packed, and be ready to go to the hospital when the time is right.

Although every woman is different, you may notice some of these signs that indicate that labor might start in the next few days:

• A change in energy levels. If you’re feeling extra tired or experiencing a sudden surge of energy in the days or weeks before labor, this is perfectly normal. You might also have the urge to “nest” and prepare your home for the baby. Although nesting can begin any time during your pregnancy, many women experience it just before labor. Don’t overexert yourself. Just rest, and save your energy.

• Lightening. Your baby drops lower into your pelvis in the weeks, days, or hours before labor. This is called lightening, because you may find breathing a little easier.

• Bloody show. You might notice a thick, pinkish or blood-streaked discharge called a bloody show. This is the mucus plug that sealed your cervix during pregnancy. It often appears several days before labor begins, although it’s not always noticeable.

What Are the Early Signs of Labor?

Although every pregnancy is different, and there is no definite set of events, you may experience some early signs of labor. Some of these can be very subtle, and you may not even notice them. Contractions are the most common first sign of labor.

Just before you go into labor, your cervix, the lower part of your uterus, will soften, thin out, and shorten. You may feel a little discomfort, maybe even a few light, irregular contractions. Your cervix will also start to dilate (open), which can happen slowly at first but will progress more quickly as you approach active labor. You may get a few, more regular contractions coming every 5 to 15 minutes, lasting 60 to 90 seconds. Do your best to keep calm and to monitor the length, frequency, and regularity of your contractions.

Early labor, which is the first part of what’s called Stage 1 labor, can be an unpredictable in terms of duration. It may be hours or even days before you progress to active labor, the second part of Stage 1 labor, especially if this is your first baby. This time will usually get shorter with subsequent deliveries. Until your contractions get more regular and become more intense, or your water breaks, just stay relaxed.

However, call your doctor or midwife if you notice bright red bleeding (not pale pink or dark brown), if your water breaks (especially if the fluid is green or brown or has a foul odor), if your baby is less active, or you have a headache, vision problems, or sudden swelling. Also call your doctor if you think you are in preterm labor, which is when you go into labor before the baby is ready to be born.

What Do I Need to Do When in Early Labor?

If you experience only a few signs of labor approaching, you may not need to go to the hospital just yet. Labor can take a lot of time, and you’ll be more comfortable, and perfectly safe, staying at home. Your doctor or midwife will give you guidance based on your labor signs and your individual situation.

Realizing you’re in labor can bring feelings ranging from excitement to disbelief or apprehension. Try to stay calm and focused. Arrange to have your partner or friend with you to help record labor symptoms, keep you company, and get you to the hospital when the time comes.

You can also try to ease any discomfort by:

• getting up and going for a walk

• trying some relaxation or breathing techniques you learned in your prenatal class

• changing positions

• taking a shower or a bath.

Call your doctor or midwife, whether it’s day or night, if you notice your contractions coming in stronger and more frequently, if your water breaks, if you’re unsure whether you’re in labor yet, or if you’re worried about anything.

You can learn more about when to go to hospital for labor and what happens when labor starts from nurses in our video guides.

What Are the Signs of Active Labor?

Active labor is when things start to really happen. Inside your body, your cervix should be dilating from 6 to 10 centimeters, and you will notice stronger signs that labor is here, including:

• Water breaking. Shortly before delivery (but sometimes only during active labor), the amniotic sac ruptures and releases the fluid inside. This is commonly called the water breaking. You could experience a gush of water or just a trickle. If your water breaks, notify your doctor or midwife. Most women go into labor within 24 hours of their water breaking.

• Strong and regular contractions. You may have had occasional contractions in the last few months, but as you enter active labor, your contractions should feel stronger, closer together, and get more regular. Each contraction will last about 30 to 70 seconds, and their strength will increase steadily. Timing your contractions can help you keep track of your progress.

• Cramp in your legs. You may feel your legs cramp when you go into active labor.

• Back pain or pressure. You could experience backache or a heavy, achy feeling as the pressure on your back increases.

• Nausea. Some women feel nauseated as active labor begins.

Active labor can last from four to eight hours, sometimes even more. Most women will dilate at the rate of one centimeter per hour. Once your water breaks or your contractions start getting regular and stronger together, it’s time to go to the hospital or birthing center, and your healthcare team will guide you through the rest.

How Can I Tell Real and False Labor Signs Apart?

If you’re having your first baby, you may think you’re going into labor when it’s really just a false alarm, and it’s too early to head to the hospital. Use the table below to help distinguish between true labor and false labor.

However, if you have any doubts about whether you’re in labor or not, call your healthcare provider for advice.

You’ll have calculated your due date, but babies can arrive a little early. So, in the third trimester, get your hospital bag packed, stock up on diapers, download the Pampers Rewards app, and get some labor tips. Knowing you are prepared will help reduce anxiety when you notice those early signs of labor. You’re nearing the end of your pregnancy, and you’re about to bring your baby into the world. You can do this!

Signs of Labor: Early Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of labor? 

We’ve all seen the depictions of women going into labor in movies, which usually occur in a very dramatic fashion but the truth is that the signs of labor can be very slight bodily changes that may not be noticeable. Labor signs and symptoms include regular, strong contractions lasting over one minute which do not stop when moving, but there are also many other labor symptoms.

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Contractions 

The most telltale sign of labor is regular and strong contractions. Labor contractions last usually more than 30 seconds, happen regularly, and more frequently than every 4-5 minutes. If these contractions increase or change to a more patterned set of contractions, labor could be starting.

WARNING: Labor is normal after the 37th week of the pregnancy. Labor before the 37th week is called premature labor. If you are under 37 weeks pregnant do NOT wait for regular contractions to start but let your doctor know right away if you have ANY contractions, usually more than 4-5 per hour).

Back pain

While back pain is normal during pregnancy when labor begins this pain will be more pronounced and could pulse with the contractions. Any change in back pain during the pregnancy should be discussed with the obstetrician.

Feeling fullness/pressure

There is a very clear feeling of pressure when the baby is ready to be born. This pressure often feels like mom needs to have a bowel movement.

Lightening: drop of the pregnant tummy

The tummy will clearly drop when the last days of pregnancy arrive. This drop will relieve some of the pressure on the stomach and the lungs so mom may be able to eat more and breathe more easily.

Loss of cervical mucus plug

The plug that blocks the end of the cervix will fall out before labor but not always. Losing the cervical plug may mean that you are going into labor soon, though it can happen many days prior to labor. This plug will appear the same as ovulation only thicker. Most of the time the plug is lost during a trip to the bathroom but can fall out and appear in the panties.

Leaking of fluid or water breaking

The amniotic sac will leak or break when labor is about to begin. If there is any fluid leaking from the vagina, the obstetrician needs to be notified immediately. Once this sac is broken, birth is the only option. If there is a green or brown color to the fluid, go to the emergency room as the baby may have had a bowel movement in utero.

Cramping or bloody discharge

The first labor pains may feel like menstrual cramps. If there is a slight bloody discharge this could also be associated with the loss of the cervical plug.

Increase in blood pressure

When the body kicks into labor, the blood pressure will rise a bit.

Weight loss

Commonly women who are about to go into labor will lose between one and three pounds. This weight is pure water weight.

Nausea/vomiting

Right before labor begins, your body will “feel” something about to happen and may decide to empty all stomach contents. This emptying may appear as diarrhea or vomiting.

Crowning

For women who have given birth before, the signs of labor may be less hectic than first-time mothers. If mom waits too long, the baby may actually crown on the way to the hospital. Crowning is preceded by dilation and the breaking of the bag of waters.

A sudden burst of energy

The mom may feel like she has more energy than ever before. This increase in energy is often associated with the nesting instinct.

Can I tell when I will go into labor?

It’s very difficult to predict ahead of time when labor will start and exactly when you will be in labor. As the pregnancy gets closer to the due date, there are early signs and symptoms you can look for in order to recognize the beginning of labor.

During the last trimester of the pregnancy, the changes in the body of both mom and baby are happening at a lightning pace. Baby is gaining more weight every day and this weight gain is paired with the body preparing for the birth of the new baby.

How do I know if I am in labor?

Labor symptoms may not be the exact same for all women and recognizing if you are in labor is not always easy. Labor can differ from one woman to another. Even if you have some of these signs, you may actually not be in active labor and it still may be weeks away.

Take this quiz to find out if you are in labor!

Can I tell the difference between true labor and false labor?

False labor and true labor can overlap because they are usually associated with contractions that are more or less strong. Braxton Hicks contractions can be felt by some while others are simply lost in the aches and pains of being in the latest weeks of pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions after 37 weeks of pregnancy are normal, but if they happen before 37 weeks (more than 3 weeks) before your due date,  then you should immediately call your doctor because they may signal premature labor. 

The single most important information you must be aware of is that any strong and regular contractions or pain prior to 37 weeks of the pregnancy (more than 3 weeks before the due date) is not normal.  

Labor is only normal after the 37th week of the pregnancy. Labor before the 37th week is called preterm or premature labor. If you experience premature labor, you should let your doctor know right away or go directly to the hospital. Do not try to guess if your pain or contractions before 37 weeks are true or false labor. Get checked out and find out what the pain or contractions are coming from.

After 37 weeks, true labor is usually identified by contractions that come closer together, are stronger and more painful, and most importantly, lead to the cervical opening (dilation). 

What is the 5-1-1 rule?

The 5-1-1 rule means that contractions come every 5 minutes, each lasting a full minute, and have been that way for an hour:

• 5 = Every 5 minutes
• 1 = Lasting a full minute or more
• 1 = Lasting for at least 1 hour

However, this rule may not apply to everybody and may be different for women who have their first pregnancy versus those who have had a baby before. More recently, recommendations, especially for those who have their first baby, are 4-1-1 (four minutes apart) or even 3-1-1 (three minutes apart).

Rest assured that even though it may feel like labor will never start, after weeks or months of training, your body will be ready to kick those contractions into full gear and labor will begin!

Read More:
What Happens in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Third Trimester Checklist

8 Signs That Labor Is 24 to 48 Hours Away – Cleveland Clinic

When you’re close to your baby’s due date, each day that passes can feel like 100. Time becomes relentless — just like calls from well-meaning loved ones asking if you’re still pregnant. You need a sign (anything!) to signal that labor is near. But do signs that labor is 24 to 48 hours away exist?

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“There are no real rules with labor. It is completely variable. If you take 10 women, you’re going to get 10 different stories about what it was like for them before they went into labor — even between pregnancies,” says ob/gyn Jonathan Emery, MD.

But take heart! Dr. Emery says there are four early signs of labor that may just happen to you.

Four early signs of labor

Signs that labor is imminent are a bit of a moving target. There’s no step-by-step list of how it all goes down, and the only thing you can count on is that your experience will be unique to you.

“The frequency and intensity of contractions determines labor,” says Dr. Emery. “But there are some physical symptoms that happen during that time.”

1. Cramps

Some women feel the type of cramps that usually happen with menstruation. “These cramps are different than Braxton Hicks, which are usually painless false contractions that happen when the uterus tightens,” explains Dr. Emery. “These period-like cramps may be the beginning of mild contractions. They’re not too painful, but they’re noticeable. They may come and go over hours or even a couple of days.”

2. Pelvic pressure

You may start to feel pressure in your vagina or pelvis. “This may be due to ‘lightening,’ which is when the baby drops down from the abdomen. Some women feel lightening as pelvic pressure or even low back pain,” says Dr. Emery. “But keep in mind that some women don’t experience this drop until they’re in actual labor.”

3. Loss of the mucus plug

Some women notice a change in their vaginal discharge, which may signal the passing of their mucus plug. The mucus plug is an accumulation of mucus that forms a seal over the cervix’s opening. It helps protect the baby from unhealthy bacteria outside of the uterus. As the cervix starts opening in preparation for labor, you may lose the mucus plug (also called bloody show) in one blob or gradually.

“Decades ago, people used to think that if a woman passed her mucus plug, it meant that she would be in labor in a certain number of days. But now we know that bloody show can be nonspecific. You can lose the mucus plug, not go into labor, and the mucus can even re-accumulate in the cervix.”

4. Changes in your vaginal discharge

Even if the mucus plug stays intact, you may notice other changes to your vaginal discharge. “It can become more watery, stickier and thicker, or maybe a little pink before labor begins or at the early stages of labor,” says Dr. Emery.

Other signs labor could be near

Dr. Emery says that while there are other potential signs of labor, they have less real science to back them up. These signs of labor include:

• Fatigue.
• Lightning crotch pain (sharp, burning or shooting nerve pain in your pelvis caused by your baby’s position).
• Loose stools or diarrhea.
• Sudden burst of energy (which Dr. Emery says is often associated with nesting, or the strong desire to get your home ready for baby).

“One or more of these labor signs might happen for some women, but there’s no clear evidence that they’re related to pre-labor or early labor. ”

What to do if you think you’re in labor

If you think labor has started, Dr. Emery says you should time your contractions. When they are happening every five minutes and are so strong that you can’t walk or talk, call your prenatal provider. The waiting game is finally over!

What are Some Signs That Labor Is Nearing? Your Baby is Coming

Unless you have a scheduled c-section, it is highly likely that your baby’s birthday occurs between 2 weeks before and 2 weeks after your due date. Fortunately, there are some pre labor signs that your body will use to let you know the big day is coming. This article will help you to learn the main signs that labor is near so you can be ready for your newborn and the end of your pregnancy.

Signs That Labor is Near

What are Early Signs of Labor?

Pay attention to your body to identify the first signs of labor and be able to prepare for it. Continue reading to see the main early labor symptoms:

Weight Gain Stops

Some women lose up to 3 pounds before labor thanks to water breaking and increased urination. Nevertheless, you will be able to notice that your weight will stop increasing towards the end of the third trimester.

Fatigue

Commonly, you will feel exhausted by the end of the third trimester. Despite your pregnancy making it hard to rest, try to do so. Labor is coming and you will need lots of energy.

Vaginal Discharge

One of the signs that labor is near is an increase in vaginal discharge. As your body practices lubricating your birth canal, it is possible that your vagina releases more mucus.

Urge to Nest

Another of the most common early labor symptoms is the presence of energy and an urge to nest. This urge will consist of the desire to organize, clean, and prepare for the baby. Despite how you feel this sudden burst of energy, try not to overdo the physical labor.

Diarrhea

Although this is probably one of the least pleasant signs that labor is near, it is another way your body uses to let you know the big day is coming. About one or two days before labor, the prostaglandins start softening your cervix to help it open. However, these hormones also could cause diarrhea. The bright side is that this will empty your bowels and allow your uterus to contract more efficiently during labor.

Back Pain

Besides suffering from common gynecological issues, women also have a hard time during pregnancy, and back pain is an example of this struggle. Although back pain will come and go, it could be one of the first signs of labor if it gets remarkably worse.

Loose Joints

Another hormone that increases when labor begins is relaxin. Not only does it help your pelvis to widen, but it also affects the rest of your joints. Therefore, it is possible that you feel clumsier than usual.

The Baby Drops

In preparation for birth, the baby’s head will begin to drop into the pelvis. This could happen anywhere from a few weeks to a few hours before active labor starts, and it is called lightening. As a consequence, you might feel pelvic discomfort and experience increased urination.

Early Labor Symptoms

Cervix Dilation

At the end of your uterus, there is a thick connection called the cervix. While it remains long and closed during pregnancy, the cervix becomes shorter and thinner as labor nears. Despite your cervix also beginning to dilate (open), you will not feel any of these pre labor signs. Thus, your doctor will do an exam and check the dilation, as it is what an OBGYN does. Eventually, your cervix will dilate 10 cm right before the delivery.

Bloody Show

Once your cervix has started dilating, the sticky plug of mucus that seals it will start to disintegrate. Therefore, another of the signs that labor is near is the presence of a thick, blood-tinged discharge a few days before labor. Although it is usually called “the bloody show”, its color will not be bright red, so make sure to call your doctor immediately if you see bright red blood.

What are the Signs of Going into Labor?

Water Breaking

Although for 15% of women water breaking is what triggers labor, most women will experience their water breaking after labor has started. Water breaking will be identified as noticeable wetness, from a trickle down your legs to a gush. It is caused by the breaking of the amniotic sac membranes, which will release amniotic fluid. This liquid will pass through your cervix and out of your vagina. It is very important to notify your doctor if you think you are leaking fluid, as it could let infections up into the uterus and harm your baby. Always keep in mind that your health and your baby’s health is important, so do not hesitate to ask your doctor any questions about pregnancy or labor.

First Signs of Labor

Intense Contractions

Braxton Hicks abdominal tightenings have prepared your body for labor so far, but they do not significantly dilate your cervix. They are unpredictable, not too painful, and can be eased by changing position or walking. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, the real labor contractions are regular, painful, and cannot be eased nor stopped. As these contractions are meant to dilate your cervix, they will be strong and more and more frequent. They can feel like strong menstrual cramps, stomach upset, or terrible back pain.

How Do You Know It Is Time to Go to the Hospital?

As there is a week when pregnancy symptoms start, there is also a time for the pregnancy to end. You will know the big day has come when your contractions are more frequent and intense. Time your contractions to know how far apart they are and how long they last. Your doctor will want to know this information to be able to advise you on when to go to the hospital. In false labor or prodromal labor you might have contractions that last about a minute each and come about every 5 minutes but then after 30 to 45 minutes the contractions start fizzling out. This might happen a few times the last week, before your real labor will eventually set in.

The rule of thumb is to go to the hospital when your contractions keep coming every 5 minutes for more than an hour. However there is no hard and fast rule since it all depends on how dilated your cervix was at your last doctor’s visit, how many deliveries you’ve had before this pregnancy, and how fast you delivered with your previous pregnancies. Although every labor is unique and not easy to predict, chances are if this is your first pregnancy, and your cervix was barely dilated at your last doctor’s appointment that you can labor at home for at least a couple of hours before heading to the hospital to get your cervix checked. On the other side if this is your 5th delivery and your cervix was dilated to a 4 cm at your last doctor’s visit, that you shouldn’t wait for a full hour before heading to the hospital. When in doubt, call your doctor. Regardless, keep in mind that if your water breaks or there is a presence of significant bleeding, you need to head to the hospital immediately.

11 Early Signs & Symptoms of Labor

Many pregnant moms have wondered how labor will feel, how long it will last, and how to know whether it’s the real deal or a false alarm.

Every birth is different, so it’s hard to predict the answers to all those questions. But knowing the signs of labor to look out for will help provide clues that it’s almost time to meet your baby, including:

• Strong, frequent contractions

• Bloody show

• Belly and lower back pain

• Water breaking

Other, early signs labor is close (anywhere from a month to mere hours away from active labor) include:

What is labor?

Labor is the process of childbirth, starting with contractions of the uterus and cervical dilation, and ending with the delivery of the baby.  

As you get closer to your due date, you may begin to notice some subtle physical signs that labor is coming soon. Then you may see signs of early labor anywhere from hours to days before you transition into active labor and baby arrives.   

How to Tell if You’re in Labor

Signs of labor

You have likely gone into true labor if you’ve noticed the following signs, but always check with your practitioner to be sure:

Strong, frequent contractions

You’ll know you’re experiencing actual labor contractions (rather than the practice Braxton Hicks contractions) by assessing the pain’s frequency, intensity and location. If you’re unsure, ask yourself these questions:

• Are the contractions evenly spaced? True labor contractions are spaced at regular intervals and become more frequent as time goes on.

• How long do the contractions last? Real labor contractions last for 30 to 70 seconds each.  

• Are the contractions strong? Actual labor contractions get stronger over time and don’t ease up, even when you change positions. You may not be able to walk or talk through labor contractions once they’ve progressed.

Bloody show 

You may notice the loss of your mucus plug — the cork sealing off your uterus from the outside world. It can come out in one large piece (it looks similar to the mucus in your nose) or lots of little ones, though you may not get a glimpse of it at all (and some women don’t lose it before delivery).

In the last days before labor, you’ll likely see increased and/or thickened vaginal discharge. This thickened, pinkish discharge is called bloody show and is a good indication that labor is imminent.

Belly and lower back pain

You may feel like you’re having strong menstrual cramps, stomach upset or lower abdominal pressure. You could also have pain in your lower back that radiates down into the legs. This pain won’t go away if you change positions. 

Water breaking

While movies would have you think you’ll learn you’re in labor only when your water breaks (in the middle of a romantic dinner date at a busy restaurant, of course), that’s a very unlikely scenario.

For most women, membranes rupture and amniotic fluid leaks after other labor symptoms have already begun. And you won’t necessarily lose it all in one big gush, either — for some women, water breaking feels more like a trickle. 

Your water breaking is actually one of the final signs of labor most women experience — and it happens naturally in only around 15 percent of births or fewer. So don’t count on it as a definite sign of labor.

Early signs labor is near (but hasn’t started yet)

Look out for these very early signs of labor (also known as pre-labor symptoms), which can happen anywhere from a full month or more to a mere hour or so before active labor starts.

Baby drops

If you’re a first-time mom, expect your baby to drop, or descend into your pelvis, a few weeks before labor begins (usually around two to four weeks before, but it can vary).

In subsequent births, this “lightening” doesn’t often happen until you’re truly in labor. Your baby is getting into position to make his exit, ideally with the head down and low (and not in the breech position).

You might feel like you’re waddling even more than you have been up until this point — and you may still be experiencing frequent urination like you probably have been in the third trimester because baby’s head is now pushing down on your bladder.

The good news is that you have a bit more breathing room, since your little one is moving away from your lungs.

Cervix begins to dilate

Your cervix, too, is preparing for birth: It starts to dilate (open) and efface (thin out) in the days or weeks before you deliver. At your weekly check-ups in the home stretch of your pregnancy, your provider may measure and track dilation and effacement via an internal exam.

But everyone progresses differently, so don’t be discouraged if you’re dilating slowly or not at all yet.

Cramps and increased back pain

You may feel some cramping and pain in your lower back and groin as labor nears, especially if this isn’t your first pregnancy. Your muscles and joints are stretching and shifting in preparation for birth.

Loose-feeling joints

Throughout your pregnancy, the pregnancy hormone relaxin has made your ligaments loosen up a little (it’s also responsible for your potential bouts of clumsiness this past trimester).

Before you go into labor, you may notice that the joints all over your body feel a bit less tight and more relaxed. It’s just nature’s way of opening up your pelvis for your little passenger to make his way into the world.

Diarrhea

Just as the muscles in your uterus are relaxing in preparation for birth, so too are other muscles in your body — including those in the rectum. And that can lead to prelabor diarrhea (as if the ongoing pregnancy diarrhea you may have experienced wasn’t bad enough!).

Though annoying, it’s completely normal. Just be sure to stay hydrated and remember: It’s a good sign!

Weight gain stops

Pregnancy weight gain often levels off at the very end. Some moms-to-be even lose a couple of pounds.

This is normal and won’t affect your baby’s birth weight. He’s still gaining, but you’re dropping due to lower levels of amniotic fluid, more bathroom breaks and maybe even increased activity.

Fatigue and the nesting instinct 

Wait a minute, is this the third trimester or the first? Between the active bladder and the renewed fatigue, sometimes you can feel like you’ve traveled backwards in time.

That super-size belly, along with your compressed bladder and other organs, can make it tricky to get a good night’s sleep during the last days and weeks of pregnancy. So pile up those pillows and take naps when you can, if at all possible.

That is, unless you’re feeling the opposite of super sleepy. Some moms get a burst of energy (also known as the nesting instinct) as their baby’s birthday nears, and can’t resist the compelling urge to clean and organize everything in sight. That’s okay too, as long as you don’t overdo it!

Am I going into labor? Should I call the doctor?

Still feel like you won’t know when to announce “It’s time!” and get ready to meet your baby? Try not to stress about it. You’ll be seeing your doctor or midwife frequently now, and she will help you spot all the important clues.

If you think you’re going into labor, your doctor has likely advised you on what to do when your due date is near and you think you’re experiencing regular contractions (e.g. “Call me when they’re coming about five minutes apart for at least an hour”).

Labor contractions won’t all be exactly spaced, but if they’re becoming pretty consistent, more painful and longer (usually around 30 to 70 seconds each), it’s time to check in with your doctor.

If you think you might be in labor but aren’t sure, get on the phone. Your provider can explain what’s going on and have you come in if there’s any uncertainty.

Don’t feel embarrassed or worry about calling outside of office hours, either: Your practitioner knows it comes with the job.

You should always call your doctor or midwife if:

• You experience any bleeding or bright red discharge (not brown or pinkish).
• Your water breaks — especially if the fluid looks green or brown. This could be a sign that meconium, or your baby’s first stool, is present, which can be dangerous if your baby ingests it during birth.
• You experience blurred or double vision, a severe headache or sudden swelling. These can all be symptoms of preeclampsia, which is characterized by pregnancy-induced high blood pressure and requires medical attention.

What is preterm labor?

The vast majority of pregnancies — about 90 percent — make it to week 37 of pregnancy. Preterm labor is when labor occurs before week 37. Call your practitioner if you haven’t yet reached your 37th week and you’re experiencing labor symptoms.  

Can I be in labor and not know it?

Every labor, like every pregnancy, is different. For most women, labor will follow along a somewhat predictable path, even as they progress (or sometimes, don’t progress) at a different pace. And most often, a mom’s contractions will help guide her along the way, sending her packing to the hospital when things start getting real.

Will you know labor when you feel it? Will those contractions tell you what you need to know? Chances are, yes. But if you’re unsure, call your practitioner and get your cervix checked out, so you can run what you’re feeling or experiencing by a professional.

Got a gut feeling (or your partner does) that it’s labor, even though your sources — and even your doctor or midwife or the triage nurse at the hospital — tell you it’s likely not? Still get it checked out.

Natural ways to help labor along

Not in labor just yet … but full-term and itching to get things moving along? There are a few natural tricks that may help induce labor that you can try at home yourself, including walking, sex, spicy food and acupuncture.

That said, there’s not a lot of research to back any of these methods up, and you should always talk to your doctor first before trying anything intended to expedite baby’s birthday.

No matter what, as you near the homestretch, your baby will make it known when he’s ready to meet you. So try to just enjoy these last days and weeks of calm before you’re a full-fledged parent!90,000 Harbingers of childbirth – How to understand that it is time to go to the hospital?

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Every pregnant woman looks forward to the upcoming birth with excitement and joy.The closer the cherished date, the more attentively the expectant mother listens to the changes taking place in her body and in the behavior of the baby. Of course, the expectant mother wants to know by what signs it can be understood that childbirth is just around the corner.

The harbingers of childbirth are usually called external, really tangible changes in the body, which are direct preparation for the onset of labor. The tissues of the birth canal – the cervix, vagina, vulva, perineum – become sufficiently elastic, stretchable, but at the same time very strong and resistant to tears.The cervix is ​​located in the center of the vaginal fornix, shortens by almost half its normal length and softens significantly. The cervical canal – the lumen of the cervix that connects the uterine cavity with the vagina – opens slightly, as a result, the diameter of the cervical canal is approximately 2-2.5 cm. The fetal head should go down as low as possible and press tightly against the entrance to the small pelvis. Of course, such a significant “restructuring” takes more than one day.

Female sex hormones are responsible for preparing for childbirth.During nine months of pregnancy, progesterone “reigns supreme” in the body of the expectant mother. It ensures the normal tone of the uterus (a relaxed state of the muscles), the production of cervical mucus – a mucous plug in the cervix that protects the fetus from infection. The normal development and growth of the fetus, the necessary concentration of nutrients and oxygen in the mother’s blood, as well as their timely and uninterrupted delivery to the baby, largely depend on the amount of progesterone during pregnancy.

Shortly before childbirth, the production of progesterone decreases markedly, and it is replaced by estrogens – female sex hormones.The increase in estrogen in the blood is caused by the need to prepare the body for the upcoming birth. It is these hormones that are responsible for the elasticity and patency of the birth canal. The speed of cervical dilatation in the first stage of labor depends on them. In the second period, when the cervix of the uterus is fully opened and the fetus passes through the birth canal, it is also very important how elastic and extensible the walls of the vagina are – the duration of the persistent period will largely depend on this. Finally, the very beginning of labor depends on the level of estrogen: contractions occur as a result of a nerve impulse, which is caused by a certain level (“peak”) of estrogen accumulation.

These changes are normal and do not require an unscheduled doctor visit or hospitalization. Harbingers of childbirth are manifestations of planned restructuring in the body of the expectant mother, the “finishing touches” of preparation for the upcoming joyful event.

The absence of clearly noticeable changes on the eve of the expected date of birth is also not a pathology. Not all mothers-to-be celebrate those changes in well-being, which are usually called harbingers. However, this does not mean that preparation is not taking place.In some cases, the “final preparations” go unnoticed by the pregnant woman. Therefore, you should not worry or urgently contact a specialist.

The appearance of any of the “precursors” indicates the likelihood of developing regular labor within the next two hours – two weeks. None of the described sensations give a 100% guarantee that a woman will become a mother within the next 24 hours. Hormonal changes before childbirth begin approximately two weeks before the expected birth.Theoretically, during these two weeks, at any time, a pregnant woman can note certain changes in well-being. Consequently, the absence of labor in an hour, a day or even a week after the first noted changes is not a pathology and does not require a special doctor’s consultation.

Changes in well-being on the eve of childbirth, requiring immediate medical attention:

• Scarlet discharge from the genital tract in any amount.
• Severe abdominal pain.
• Increased blood pressure (above 130/80 mm Hg).
• Increase in body temperature to 37.5 ° C and above.
• Increased heart rate (more than 100 beats per minute).
• Severe headache, vomiting, visual impairment.
• Significant increase in edema.
• Absence, a sharp decrease, a sharp increase in fetal movements.
• Suspected leakage of amniotic fluid.

Weight loss . Shortly before the expected date of birth, the expectant mother may celebrate some “weight loss”. Weight loss during this period is associated with the elimination of excess fluid from the body, that is, a general decrease in edema. The more pronounced was the fluid retention during pregnancy, the more weight the pregnant woman will “lose” on the eve of childbirth. During pregnancy, water is retained in the body of all expectant mothers to a greater or lesser extent.The reason is progesterone, a hormone whose main function is to support pregnancy. Before childbirth, progesterone is replaced by estrogens. It is estrogens that remove excess fluid from the body. The first results are visible on the hands, feet and legs. Depending on the severity of edema, weight loss before childbirth varies from 0.5 to 2.5 kg.

Changing the chair. An increase in the frequency and change in the consistency of physiological discharges on the eve of childbirth is also associated with an increase in the level of estrogen and the elimination of fluid from the body of the expectant mother.Similar changes in the body of a non-pregnant woman are observed during menstruation. The stool can become more frequent up to 2-3 times a day, at the same time there may be some liquefaction of feces. More frequent urge to defecate, a sharp change in the color and odor of feces in combination with nausea and vomiting is a reason for consulting a doctor – under such “precursors” food toxicoinfection can be masked.

Descent of the fundus of the uterus. Shortly before childbirth, the baby is pressed by the presenting part (most often this is the head) to the lower segment of the uterus and pulls it down, pressing against the entrance to the small pelvis.The fetus is “grouped”, taking the most advantageous position for itself at the time of the beginning of the contractions. As a result of such “preparations” on the part of the fetus, the uterus “sags”, and its upper part – the bottom – ceases to exert pressure on the internal organs. After the lowering of the fundus of the uterus, the pregnant woman disappears shortness of breath (it becomes easier to breathe, there is a feeling of full inhalation). If in the last month the expectant mother had belching, heartburn, a feeling of heaviness in the stomach after eating, when the fundus of the uterus descends, these phenomena disappear.However, having dropped lower to the pelvic area, the uterus will exert more pressure on the internal organs located there. The organs of the small pelvis, in particular, include the bladder. It is located directly in front of the uterus, at the bottom of it. Behind the uterus, at a distance of several centimeters, is the ampulla of the rectum – the outlet of the intestine. It is not hard to guess what will be the result of pressure on the bladder and rectum: the urge to use the toilet before childbirth may become noticeably more frequent.

Isolation of the mucous plug. During pregnancy, the glands of the mucous membrane of the cervical canal (lumen of the cervix) secrete a special secret. It is a thick, sticky, jelly-like mass that forms a kind of cork. The mucous plug completely fills the cervical canal, preventing the penetration of bacterial flora from the vagina into the uterine cavity. Thus, cervical mucus, or mucous plug of the cervix, protects the fetus from ascending infection.Before childbirth, when, under the influence of estrogen, the cervix begins to soften, the cervical canal opens slightly and the cervical mucus contained in it can be released. In this case, the expectant mother may find small clots of mucus of a yellowish-brownish color, transparent, jelly-like consistency, odorless. The mucous plug can stand out at once or move away in parts during the day. In the latter case, there is sometimes a slight discomfort in the form of “stretching” in the lower abdomen, reminiscent of sensations before or during menstruation.However, most often, the release of a mucous plug is not accompanied by tangible changes in the well-being of the expectant mother. After the passage of the mucous plug, it is not recommended to visit the pool, swim in ponds and in the bath. When immersed in water, it fills the vagina; thus, in the absence of a mucous plug, the risk of infection of the fetus and membranes through the slightly opened cervix increases.

Training bouts. Training or false contractions are those that appear shortly before childbirth and are not actually labor activity, since they do not lead to the opening of the cervix.A contraction is essentially a single contraction of the wall of the uterus; this contraction usually lasts a few seconds. At the moment of the contraction, the expectant mother feels a gradually increasing and then gradually decreasing tension in the abdomen. If at this moment you put your palm on your stomach, you can notice that the stomach becomes very hard, but after the contraction it completely relaxes and becomes soft again. In addition to the involuntary tension of the uterus, there are usually no other changes in the well-being of the expectant mother during false contractions.Distinguishing training fights from real ones is not difficult. In most cases, false contractions are weak, painless, irregular, or alternating at a significant interval (30 minutes or more). Labor pains, on the other hand, are characterized by regularity and a gradual increase in intensity. Unlike false contractions, real contractions lead to a visible result – the opening of the cervix. In doubtful cases, a simple obstetric examination will be sufficient to establish an accurate diagnosis. In other cases, training contractions, like all precursors of childbirth, do not require a visit to a doctor or hospitalization.False contractions can be repeated for several hours and then stop. Most often, they bother a pregnant woman in the evening and morning hours for several days.

Discomfort. In the last weeks before childbirth, many pregnant women notice discomfort in the lower abdomen and in the sacrum area (the area slightly below the lower back). Such changes in

the well-being of the expectant mother is caused by the stretching of the pelvic ligaments and the increased blood flow to the pelvic organs.Usually these minor sensations, described as a feeling of “light languor” in the lower abdomen, are comparable to similar phenomena in the period before or during menstruation. Discomfort, like training contractions, often bother the expectant mother in the morning and evening hours. The level of discomfort is minimal, it should not worry the expectant mother and does not require medical intervention.

All precursors of childbirth can appear during the last two weeks before childbirth, their presence, as well as absence, is the norm and does not require a visit to a doctor.It is important to learn to listen to changes in your body, not to be afraid of changes in well-being associated with prenatal preparation, and most importantly, to have time to mentally and physically prepare for the most important event – the birth of a baby.

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Harbingers: where labor begins – Information

Harbingers – childbirth is coming soon!

False contractions

They may appear after the 38th week of pregnancy.False contractions are similar to Braxton-Hicks contractions, which a woman could already feel starting from the second trimester of pregnancy (the uterus seems to be stiff for a few seconds – a couple of minutes, then the tension in it subsides). False contractions train the uterus before childbirth, they are irregular and painless, the intervals between them are not shortened. Real labor pains, on the contrary, are regular, their strength gradually increases, they become longer and more painful, and the intervals between them are reduced. Then we can already say that the birth began for real.In the meantime, there are false contractions, it is not necessary to go to the hospital – you can easily survive them at home.

Abdominal prolapse

Approximately two to three weeks before delivery, the baby, in preparation for birth, presses the presenting part (usually the head) to the lower part of the uterus and pulls it down. As a result, the uterus moves lower into the pelvic region, its upper part ceases to press on the internal organs of the chest and abdominal cavity. The people call it – the stomach sank.As soon as the belly drops, the expectant mother notices that it has become easier for her to breathe, but sitting and walking becomes, on the contrary, more difficult. Heartburn and belching also disappear (after all, the uterus no longer presses on the diaphragm and stomach). But, having gone down, the uterus begins to press on the bladder – naturally, urination becomes more frequent.

For some, the prolapse of the uterus causes a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen and even mild pain in the inguinal ligaments. These sensations arise due to the fact that the child’s head, moving downward, irritates the nerve endings of the pelvic organs.

During the second and subsequent births, the abdomen drops later – right on the eve of birth. It happens that this harbinger of childbirth is not at all.

Discharge of the mucous plug

This is one of the main and obvious harbingers of childbirth. During pregnancy, the glands in the cervix produce a secret (it looks like a thick jelly and forms a so-called plug), which prevents various microorganisms from entering the uterine cavity. Before childbirth, under the influence of estrogen, the cervix softens, the cervical canal opens slightly and the cork can come out – a woman will see that there are clots of mucus that look like jelly on the linen.The cork can be of different colors – white, transparent, yellowish-brown or pink-red. Often it is stained with blood – this is completely normal and may indicate that childbirth will occur within the next 24 hours. The mucous plug can stand out immediately (at once) or come out in parts during the day.

Weight loss

Approximately two weeks before delivery, weight may decrease, usually by 0.5–2 kg. This happens because excess fluid is removed from the body and swelling decreases.If earlier during pregnancy, under the influence of the hormone progesterone, the fluid in the body of a pregnant woman accumulated, now, before childbirth, the effect of progesterone decreases, but other female sex hormones – estrogens – begin to work hard, they also remove excess fluid from the body of the expectant mother.

In addition, the expectant mother often notices that at the end of pregnancy it became easier for her to put on rings, gloves, shoes – this reduced swelling on the hands and feet.

Chair change

Right before childbirth, hormones often act on the intestines – they relax its muscles, as a result, a stool disorder begins. Sometimes women take such frequent (up to 2-3 times a day) and even loose stools for an intestinal infection. But if there is no nausea, vomiting, changes in the color and smell of feces, any other symptoms of intoxication, you should not worry: this is one of the harbingers of the upcoming birth.

And even on the eve of childbirth, you often do not feel like eating at all.All this is also the preparation of the body for natural childbirth.

Change of mood

Many women experience mood changes a few days before giving birth. The expectant mother quickly gets tired, she wants to rest more, sleep, even some kind of apathy appears. This state is quite understandable – you need to gather strength to prepare for childbirth. Often, just before childbirth, a woman wants to retire, looking for a secluded place where she can hide and focus on herself and her experiences.

What if there are any precursors of childbirth? Usually, you don’t need to do anything, because the harbingers are completely natural, they just say that the body is rebuilding and preparing for the birth of a child. Therefore, you should not worry and go to the hospital as soon as, for example, training contractions have begun or the mucous plug has come off. We must wait for real labor pains or the outpouring of water.

Harbingers of childbirth Dnipro

From 37th to 42nd weeks pregnancy is considered full-term.Childbirth can begin on any day of a given period and it is absolutely not necessary that any specific signs indicate their approach. Female sex hormones are responsible for preparing for childbirth in the mother’s body. Approximately two weeks before childbirth, the woman’s hormonal background changes. During all 9 months progesterone was the main hormone. It ensured the normal tone of the uterus, the production of cervical mucus, the normal development and growth of the fetus, the necessary concentration of nutrients and oxygen in the blood, as well as their delivery to the baby depended on it.

Shortly before childbirth, the concentration of progesterone decreases, and estrogens come to replace it. It is these hormones that are responsible for the elasticity and patency of the birth canal. The speed of cervical dilatation in the first stage of labor depends on them. In the second period, it is very important how elastic and stretched the walls of the vagina are – the duration of the persistent period will largely depend on this. Finally, the very beginning of labor depends on the level of estrogen: contractions occur as a result of a nerve impulse, which is caused by a certain level of accumulation of hormones.

Childbirth is a complex process that occurs reflexively and is regulated by the nervous and hormonal systems. Each contraction of the uterus – a contraction – is accompanied by irritation of the nerve elements in its wall. In this case, the nerve endings secrete active substances that contribute to the occurrence of the next contraction of the uterus. Thus, in a closed chain, the entire process is controlled until the end of labor.

There are generally accepted signals indicating the approach of childbirth, the so-called harbingers.If you notice the appearance of precursors, this does not mean at all that childbirth is about to begin: training contractions or, for example, lowering the abdomen can occur both a few hours and two to three weeks before childbirth.

1. Lowering the abdomen

This is one of the most essential external signs of the coming birth. Due to the fact that the baby’s head is pressed against the entrance to the small pelvis, the bottom of the uterus sinks a few centimeters – and this is quite noticeable to the eyes. At this time, it becomes easier for the pregnant woman to breathe, because the child stops squeezing the diaphragm.The same applies to the stomach, in particular, heartburn makes itself felt less often. True, the pressure on the bladder increases, and therefore more often you want to go to the toilet.

As a rule, this can happen starting from the 36th week, but if a woman gives birth for the second time, then the child sometimes goes down just before childbirth.

Brexon Higgs contractions (false contractions)

They are also called false contractions or training. They can begin as early as the 30th week, but are especially pronounced at 37-39 weeks.The sensations do resemble true contractions, but the intervals between them differ from each other. For example, true first contractions will occur every 10 minutes, but with a “false alarm” the interval will be uneven: 20 minutes – 15 minutes – 30 minutes – 10 minutes, etc. The dynamics of the process is not characteristic of false contractions either – they will neither intensify nor lengthen, and the intervals between them will remain uneven. Their main difference is that they do not lead to the opening of the cervix.

Such contractions can stop on their own, because the uterus is a muscular organ and has the right to train before the decisive event.Normally, such training can be several times during the last week before childbirth, they usually last no more than 2-3 hours.

Or false contractions can develop into real contractions: the interval between contractions will gradually streamline and turn into regular labor activity. If false contractions are repeated every day, cause significant discomfort, you must consult a doctor.

2. False contractions:

1) Do not become longer, stronger and more frequent over time.The intervals between them are irregular.

2) May not cause painful sensations, appear in the form of pulling, but weak sensations, similar to menstrual ones. At the same time, the uterus becomes hard, like an elastic ball.

3) Stop or weaken when you lie down, walk or stand in the shower.

4) With them you can sleep.

5) On examination, the cervix may have some dilatation, but this does not change over time.

6) Usually not accompanied by bloody discharge.In rare cases, brownish mucus may appear.

True contractions:

1) Their rhythm is regular, they increase in strength, frequency and duration.

2) Sensations grow in strength, severe aching pain in the lower back may appear, as well as an unpleasant feeling of fullness in the lower abdomen.

3) Do not change or disappear if you change the position of the body.

4) You cannot sleep with them.

5) Examination of the cervix shows its softening and gradual dilatation.

6) May be accompanied by bloody discharge in the form of mucus – a mucous plug comes out.

3. Discomfort

Regardless of the presence or, conversely, the absence of training contractions, 1.5-2 weeks before childbirth, a woman begins to feel discomfort, pressure and heaviness in the sacrum and lower abdomen. This is caused by an increase in the elasticity of the ligaments and a change in the position of the pelvic organs. Keep in mind that during this period, you should not take any painkillers – there will be no pronounced effect, but the side effects can be very unpleasant.

4. Discharge of the mucous plug

Another insidious phenomenon, since it is considered a harbinger, but it manifests itself in all women individually. The cervix is ​​shortened – and this leads to the release of a mucous plug (a dense clot of mucus throughout pregnancy served as an additional barrier between the vaginal flora and membranes of the ovum). The cork is a jelly-like lump – transparent, yellowish or brownish, sometimes with brown or pinkish veins.It either comes out all at once, or comes out in parts over several days. Immediately before the plug comes off, there may be a pulling pain in the lower abdomen. In primiparous women, the period between the shedding of the plug and childbirth can be from 12 hours to two weeks.

5. Slight spotting

Under the influence of estrogen, the vaginal mucosa becomes edematous, cyanotic and full of blood. Even after the most common gynecological examination, you may notice blood smears on your underwear.Do not be alarmed: if this incident really happened immediately after the visit to the doctor and there were literally a few drops of blood, no treatment is required in this case.

5. Diarrhea, nausea

Under the influence of prostaglandins, the cervix ripens – and this circumstance affects the neighboring organs. In particular, intestinal motility increases, which, in turn, leads to loosening of the stool. The opening of the cervix from the 37th to the 42nd week of pregnancy can begin at any time, in some women it is accompanied by nausea and vomiting, however, only a doctor can determine whether diarrhea and vomiting are caused by normal prenatal changes or an intestinal infection.If nausea and vomiting are combined with headache, increased blood pressure, visual impairment (“flies before the eyes”), you should immediately consult a doctor.

6. Weight loss

Due to the fact that the production of progesterone decreases, more than half of pregnant women lose weight by 1-2 kg 1-1.5 weeks before delivery. This does not threaten the child, he continues to receive all the necessary nutrients in the right amount.

7. Dilation of the pelvic bones

You may have aching lower back pain associated with a sprained sacroiliac joint.The fact is that the child is getting heavier and lower and lower. Specific pelvic exercises or swimming can help.

The author of the article: Britan Tatiana, employee of the “Aist” center, obstetrician-gynecologist of the highest category.

90,000 Coming soon! 6 main harbingers of childbirth

By the time the date of birth is approaching, jokes in the style of “Has not yet given birth” become an integral part of the life of every expectant mother. All jokes, but how do you really understand that day X will come very soon? EVACLINIC IVF specialists spoke about the most important precursors of childbirth.

False (training) contractions

As a rule, such contractions appear shortly before childbirth, but do not lead to the opening of the cervix and the onset of labor. It is not so difficult to distinguish them from real ones – they are less painful, weak and irregular (occur at intervals of 30 minutes or more). Labor pains increase over time and occur at regular intervals, which gradually decrease.

Abdominal prolapse

Approximately 2-3 weeks before giving birth, the baby presses the head against the lower part of the uterus and literally pulls it down.As a result, the uterus sinks lower into the pelvic region, and this leads to a rather noticeable abdominal ptosis. As a rule, after drooping, women note that it has become easier for them to breathe, but in the lower abdomen, on the contrary, slight discomfort may occur. Urination also increases.

Cork drift

The plug is a special secret that is produced in the cervix and literally “closes” the entrance to the uterus, preventing pathological microorganisms from entering there. Before childbirth, the cervix softens and shortens, and the plug may come out.It consists of light-colored mucus, streaked with yellow or red. The cork can come off both at once and in parts, within a few days.

Chair change

Under the influence of hormones, not only the cervix can relax, but also the intestines. As a result, stool disorder often occurs before childbirth. If, against the background of loose stools, there are no other alarming symptoms (nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain), then the body has begun to prepare for childbirth.

Weight loss

Shortly before giving birth, the expectant mother may find that she has unexpectedly lost weight (by 0.5 – 2 kg). This is due to the fact that excess fluid leaves the body and the swelling becomes much less pronounced. Fluid leaves the body under the influence of estrogens, which begin to prepare the body for childbirth.

Change in baby’s activity

A few days before giving birth, babies tend to “calm down”.They move much less, because they are already too cramped in the uterus, mostly they make small movements only with their legs or arms. Important: from time to time, you should still feel the baby wiggle.

Harbingers of childbirth do not at all say that the baby will be born today or tomorrow, but they should be a signal for you that the meeting with the baby is already quite close.

The first signs of labor: the onset of labor.

As the due date approaches, you may wonder: how, in fact, determine the onset of labor? Do not worry.The body itself tells the woman what is happening.

Signs of an imminent labor

There are two main warning signs that labor may begin in a day or two.

1. Rupture of the fetal bladder (amniotic sac)

This is also said: “the waters have moved away.” The amount of clear amniotic fluid that leaks from the fetal bladder and flows out of the vagina can be very different. Water can flow away at a time, or it can flow out drop by drop.Surprisingly, fewer than 25 percent of women have this symptom first. Someone’s water can only drain during childbirth, and not before them. But if the waters have drained beforehand, it is highly likely that labor will begin within the next 24 hours. If your water breaks down, tell your doctor or midwife right away. Take note of the time, color and amount of liquid, as well as the presence of an unpleasant odor. Provide this information to medical personnel.

2. Passage of the mucous plug

A day or two before the onset of labor, you may notice a pinkish or bloody discharge.This is a mucous plug that closes the entrance to the cervical canal during pregnancy. Not all women notice the passage of the plug, and for some this happens only after the onset of contractions. Remember that the discharge of a mucous plug is not like the brownish spotting that may appear after a vaginal examination by a gynecologist during pregnancy: such discharge is not a cause for concern.

Early signs of onset of labor: contractions

Serious warning that labor has already begun is the start of regular uterine contractions.They are initially felt as cramps during menstruation or back pain that starts and goes away at intervals of 20-30 minutes. Gradually, the pain and cramping gets stronger and longer. Contractions also become more frequent until they begin to occur at intervals of three to five minutes. Time your contractions, record exactly what time each contraction starts and how long it lasts.

Real or false contractions?

Call your doctor

If you think labor has started, call your doctor.Prepare your notes when you call so you can give accurate information about your symptoms. Don’t be afraid to call at any time of the day or night. Health care providers understand that contractions do not always start between nine and five, so calls are expected in the maternity ward at any time of the day. However, they pay most attention to the night, since it is at this time of day that the part of the nervous system responsible for labor is active, and most often the contractions begin at this time.

Please note that you may not have to go to the hospital immediately.If this is your first child, then most doctors and midwives will ask you to stay at home until your contractions start at five-minute intervals. If this is not your first birth, then you will most likely be asked to come to the hospital early, because your birth may proceed faster.

When you realize that the contractions have begun, a variety of emotions may flood you: excitement, joy, distrust and fear. Try to stay calm and focused. Ask your husband or girlfriend to help you record your symptoms, support you, and drive you to the hospital when needed.And most importantly, remember that you are quite capable of giving this world to your baby!

Do you already know what to take with you to the hospital? The third trimester of pregnancy is a pleasant period to attend to the preparation for childbirth.

Harbingers of childbirth in primiparous and multiparous

Contents:

1. Recently, my baby has begun to move less. Is this a harbinger of an imminent birth?
2. I lost a little weight. Is this one of the signs of approaching childbirth?
3. How to understand that the belly has dropped, and how many days after that the labor will begin?
4. Are frequent urination and diarrhea signs of an imminent birth?
5. The mucous plug has come off.After such a sign of the onset of labor, do you urgently need to go to the hospital?
6. Labor is coming soon. How to understand that contractions have begun?
7. How to understand that real contractions begin before childbirth and it’s time to go to the hospital?
8. Send away the waters. What to do?
9. Harbingers of childbirth: frequently asked questions

Every mother-to-be wants to know when her baby will be born. You can calculate the approximate date yourself immediately after the news of pregnancy. Your doctor will also indicate the most likely due date.But it is important to understand that the prognosis will be very approximate – according to statistics, only 5% of women give birth on the scheduled day in the 40th week.

Just accept the fact that no one can predict the exact day and hour, but there are special signs of an impending birth that can warn the expectant mother about the need to go to the hospital.

Recently, my baby has started to move less. Is this a harbinger of an imminent birth?

Do not think that childbirth takes a lot of energy only from the mother. This is also a lot of work for a baby, and some time before “X-day” he usually calms down to prepare for the birth.Another reason for a child’s reduced activity is lack of space.

This behavior of the child certainly indicates that you have reached the home stretch, but you cannot confidently assert that the birth will begin one of these days.The account can go for both days and weeks.

I lost a little weight. Is this one of the signs of approaching childbirth?

During pregnancy, a woman’s body produces progesterone – a special hormone that has a huge impact on the entire process of fetal development. One of the manifestations of a high level of progesterone is an increased concentration of water in the body, which causes edema in the expectant mother.

At about 37 weeks, your baby’s development is complete. From this time on, the production of progesterone begins to fall, and with it excess water leaves. A woman may notice that tightly fitting shoes suddenly began to dangle on her leg, and the ring, which seemed to have adhered to her toe, was unexpectedly easy to remove.The scales will also confirm the changes – the water that has left the body can give up to two kilograms of the lost mass.

It turns out that weight loss is one of the clear harbingers before childbirth? Yes, but unfortunately it is not very reliable. Firstly, some mothers experience no or almost no weight loss. Secondly, a change in the amount of water in the body is only a symptom that can be a consequence of both progesterone activity and other physiological processes not related to pregnancy.

How to understand that the belly has dropped, and how many days after that the labor will begin?

In the first birth, mothers are often afraid to miss the abdominal prolapse. Here are some signs of this harbinger of childbirth, which will determine that the process has begun:

• The belly changes its shape, turning from a ball into a juicy pear.

• It becomes easier to breathe, heartburn and tension in the ribs disappear.

• Frequent urination appears.

• Due to the shift in the center of gravity, posture changes and a characteristic “duck” gait appears.

• Your palm fits easily between your chest and stomach.

In some expectant mothers, abdominal prolapse occurs several weeks before the planned date. They do not know how to understand this, and they are afraid that preterm labor has begun. Do not panic: in the absence of other precursors, this is not a sign of the onset of labor.

Are frequent urination and diarrhea signs of an imminent labor?

Frequent urination – a consequence of abdominal prolapse.It is not a symptom of the onset of labor, and there may still be weeks before it.

Diarrhea is another matter. In the later stages, the expectant mother undergoes hormonal changes that stimulate the relaxation of the smooth muscles of the uterus. As a side effect, the intestines relax, as clearly as possible making it clear that labor will begin soon.

If diarrhea is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, other symptoms of intoxication, then the woman’s “signs of labor” are caused by stale food. If no poisoning is observed with diarrhea, we can only congratulate you – there are 1-2 days left to wait, and soon you will take your baby in your arms for the first time.

The mucous plug has come off. After such a sign of the onset of labor, do you urgently need to go to the hospital?

Take your time, let’s first figure out what’s going on.

In preparation for childbirth, the cervix dilates and when the plug can no longer be held, it comes out. This process is very individual, and even in the same woman during the 1st pregnancy, the plug may come off earlier than in the second or third births.

The passage of the mucous plug is one of the signs of close labor and, as a rule, occurs a few days before, for example, at the 39th week. However, in the practice of obstetricians, there are cases when the cork comes out already in the process of childbirth, so you should not consider this event a mandatory harbinger of childbirth. It may happen that your contractions start earlier.

Let the passage of the cork not answer the question of how to understand that labor will begin today. All the same, this is a significant event, after which you need to listen very carefully to the signals of your own body.And remember: the natural barrier that protected the baby throughout pregnancy is no longer there, and you need to be very careful before giving birth. Having sex, taking a bath and performing any other actions in which there is a risk of foreign microflora entering the birth canal is now strictly prohibited.

The birth is coming soon. How to understand that contractions have begun?

The onset of contractions cannot be missed, but during the first birth, inexperienced mothers often confuse real contractions with false ones.

How to understand that real contractions begin before childbirth and it’s time to go to the hospital? There are a few basic signs:

• With false contractions, the expectant mother’s stomach pulls, but before the onset of childbirth, the sensations become much more painful.Many women say that true labor pains resemble very intense menstrual pains.

• Thinking how to understand if the contractions have begun, and whether labor is coming soon, engage in breathing exercises or start walking slowly. If the contractions are false, these exercises are likely to completely relieve the discomfort in the uterus. If these are real signs of the onset of labor, the pain will not think to subside.

• The main signs of incipient contractions and the proximity of labor are regularity and a gradual increase in the frequency and duration of spasms.Look at the clock and note the duration of contractions and the time between them. For example, you had several contractions of 20 seconds each 20 minutes apart, and then the gap was reduced to 15 minutes, or the duration increased to 30 seconds. This method will help both to understand that contractions have begun, and to collect useful information for the doctor about their dynamics.

Water has flown away. What to do?

Act quickly and clearly!

Look at the clock and note the time, notice the color and amount of water. Ideally, they should be odorless and transparent, possibly with a slight yellowish or pinkish tinge. Then feel free to call an ambulance, take a folder with documents and “mother’s suitcase”. Within 12 hours you will become a mom!

Harbingers of childbirth: frequently asked questions

In the late stages of pregnancy, women are very much expecting signs of childbirth, so sometimes they are inclined to take completely extraneous events for them.This is easy to understand: even the experience of a second-bearing mother does not always allow her to accurately predict the onset of childbirth, and any signals from her own body can cause excitement in a primiparous mother.

How to understand that labor has begun? What are the first signs of labor? We answer in blitz mode.

How to understand when labor will begin in the first pregnancy?

The first real signs of the onset of labor are the outpouring of waters and contractions: they are no longer harbingers, but very obvious messengers who scream about the need to go to the hospital.

If you have contractions, and the water has not yet departed, or vice versa, you do not need to wait for the second event – call the ambulance!

Are the harbingers of childbirth different in the second pregnancy?

Signs of second and third births may be slightly different than in the first pregnancy.For example, abdominal prolapse may occur later, and the likelihood of water draining before the onset of labor is increased.

As practice shows, it is much easier for a woman to understand that a second birth has begun than during her first pregnancy.

How to understand that difficult labor has begun? Harbingers of childbirth can show that a cesarean section is necessary?

The decision to carry out childbirth with the help of an operation is made by a specialist, guided by objective data – the presentation of the child, its size, the state of health of the mother and other facts.It also happens that some signs during natural childbirth force the doctor to urgently begin a cesarean section. However, in most cases, the mother gives birth on her own.

How long does it take between the signs of labor in the first pregnancy and the birth of the baby?

From the first signs of labor (the beginning of labor or the outpouring of water) to the birth of a child, primiparous usually take 9-11 hours. With repeated pregnancy, these precursors of childbirth appear in 6-8 hours.

What happens if I miss some pre-birth precursors? What if I do not notice the signs of childbirth and give birth in a dream?

Oddly enough, some women are afraid to miss their own birth. Don’t worry – no one has done it yet!

References to sources:

1. Estimating Your Due Date. WebMD.

2. Nina S.Stachenfeld. Sex Hormone Effects on Body Fluid Regulation. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2008 Jul; 36 (3): 152-159.

3. How can you tell if your baby is head down? Medical News Today.

4. What to expect when losing your mucus plug. Medical News Today.

5. Deborah A. Raines; Danielle B. Cooper. Braxton Hicks Contractions. StatPearls.

6. Labor. WebMD.

7. Kotomina Tatiana Sergeevna.First and subsequent childbirth: main differences. Childbirth in Moscow.

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