July 15, 2024 It’s almost that time: What are the signs of labor starting? View »

You've finished nesting, packed a bag for the hospital, and know what your little one will wear home from the hospital. Now you're just waiting on the baby to make an appearance! While you wait, familiarize yourself with the signs of labor.

Whether it's your first child or simply the newest addition to your family, the birth of a child can be an awe-inspiring yet sometimes overwhelming experience. The first step in the process? Deciphering the clues your body is sending you as it prepares to give birth.

Every woman's birthing experience is different-and yours may even differ from one pregnancy to another. Knowing some common signs of labor can be helpful.

Will I recognize the signs of labor?

There are multiple stages of labor, and each stage causes some unique sensations. You may first experience some signs of labor starting a few days before labor begins. These signs may include:

• Frequent urination
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Pelvic pressure

These are all signs of the baby dropping down in the uterus, preparing to enter the birth canal. This is a process called "lightening." Other signs of lightening can include relief of some common pregnancy symptoms, including being able to breathe easier and experiencing less heartburn.

Other signs are an indication that labor has begun. These signs of labor include:

• Changes in vaginal discharge, including a bloody show when you lose the mucus plug in your cervix
• Ruptured membranes, also called your "water breaking," when the sac of amniotic fluidbreaks
• Strong, regular contractions, between five and 10 minutes apart

Contractions can be felt in a number of ways, including pain in the lower back or abdomen that's similar to menstrual cramps or stronger. True labor contractions are regular and get stronger and closer together over time.

What's the difference between false labor and real labor?

Many women experience false labor pains during pregnancy, which are called Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions most often occur during the third trimester, though they may be experienced in the second trimester as well.

These contractions are your body's way of preparing itself for labor, but they are not signs of labor. Wondering how to tell if you're experiencing false labor or actual labor? The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these indicators :

• Braxton Hicks contractions are usually felt only in the front of the body, while true contractions usually start in the back and move to the front.
• Braxton Hicks contractions don't usually have a pattern or get closer together, while true contractions come regularly and get closer together.
• Braxton Hicks contractions may start strong and weaken or be consistently weak, while true contractions will steadily get stronger.
• Braxton Hicks contractions may stop when you slow down or rest, while true contractions continue no matter what position you're in and whether you're moving or not.

One other indicator of false labor? Braxton Hicks contractions often start later in the day or after you're up and active.

If you're experiencing contractions and aren't sure whether they're false labor or the real deal, the only way to know for sure is to be examined by a medical provider. Give your OB/GYN's office a call to see what your next steps should be.

What should I do if I think I'm having signs of labor?

You'll get the answers to a lot of "what ifs" when you participate in our Women & Children's Education Classes, including the Prepared Childbirth class. Even for moms who've been through labor and delivery before, these classes can offer helpful perspective and guidance.

When you're nearing the end of pregnancy, you should also talk with your OB/GYN about what to expect when labor begins. Discuss what to do when you notice contractions and other signs of labor. Make sure you also know how to reach your provider outside of regular office hours.

While you'll usually be advised to head for the hospital when your contractions are less than five minutes apart, there are some red flags that you should seek medical attention earlier. Seek medical attention at the hospital if:

• Contractions seem particularly intense and painful with no relief between them.
• The baby seems to be moving less often.
• You are having heavy vaginal bleeding.
• You have a severe headache and blurry or double vision.
• Your water breaks and is green or brown in appearance.
• Your water has broken, but you are not having contractions.

It's always better to be safe than sorry, so don't have any qualms about seeking medical attention if you aren't sure whether you're in labor. This is a situation that we see each and every day.

Learn more

Our Women & Children's Services team gets to witness life's most sacred moments every day. Preparing for a delivery? Call 770-525-6572, or click here for more information.

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