Content medically reviewed by Stephanie Delvo, MD
As your due date approaches, every sensation might have you wondering if labor has finally started.
The journey into labor often begins with subtle, often unnoticeable changes. These early signs of labor can appear days or even weeks before true labor begins. It’s your body’s way of preparing for delivery.
“The weeks leading up to your due date are exciting, but can also be confusing,” said Dr. Stephanie Delvo, an OB/GYN at Essentia Health. “Your body undergoes a lot of changes. Naturally, you’ll feel a range of symptoms, including pain and cramping, that can mimic labor.”
Knowing the different signs of labor can help you feel more prepared and confident as you approach delivery.
The Different Stages of Labor
Labor refers to the process your body undergoes to prepare for giving birth. It officially begins when your uterus contracts. The first stage begins with regular contractions and continues until your cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimeters. The second stage is the pushing stage. The third stage involves the delivery of the placenta.
Remember every labor is unique and the signs vary. Some women might not notice any early signals and only recognize the later signs of labor. Pay close attention to your body and communicate with your healthcare provider as you approach your due date.
5 Signs of Labor
Among the many sensations leading up to birth, a few can point to true labor. You might experience some of these signals and head to your doctor only to learn that labor hasn’t fully begun.
“This is perfectly normal and part of the process,” Dr. Delvo said. “Stay in communication with your provider and don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re unsure.”
The signs vary depending on which stage of labor you’re in. These five signs could indicate you’re in labor –
1. Lightening
One common sign of early labor is that your baby drops. You might hear your doctor refer to this as “lightening.” It happens when your baby’s head descends further into your pelvis. You might notice it’s easier to breathe because there’s less pressure on your diaphragm, but you might also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis and need to urinate more frequently.
2. Intense Back Pain
Back pain is a common symptom during pregnancy. As labor begins and progresses, you may notice intense back pain that doesn’t resolve with changing your position. You may also feel pressure. This could be a sign of labor.
3. Changes in Vaginal Discharge
If you’re in labor, you might notice an increase in clear white or pinkish mucus. This is the mucus plug that has sealed your cervix during pregnancy. As your cervix softens and dilates, it can be expelled. It looks like thick mucus that is pink or slightly bloody. Sometimes called the “bloody show,” this is also a sign that labor might be starting soon. Losing your mucus plug doesn’t always mean labor is near. It could still be days away.
4. Regular Contractions
A sign of true labor is regular contractions. Learning what contractions feel like can be helpful, but every woman experiences them differently. You may feel a tightening or cramping sensation that starts in your back and moves to the front of your abdomen. They may also feel like strong menstrual cramps or intense pressure.
When your contractions are consistently strong, last around 45 to 60 seconds and come every 3 to 5 minutes, you’ve likely entered active labor. This is when things start to progress more quickly. If you haven’t already, this is when you should call your birthing center and head to the hospital.
5. Water Breaking
Another significant sign of labor is your water breaking. This happens when the amniotic sac surrounding your baby ruptures and releases amniotic fluid. If you’re water breaks, you may notice –
- A sudden gush or slow trickle of fluid
- Slightly yellow fluid, which is the amniotic fluid. It can sometimes be tinged with brown coloring if your baby passed their first stool in the uterus.
If your water breaks, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately. They will want to assess you and ensure everything is okay.
Braxton-Hicks
Braxton-Hicks contractions cause many false alarms and send mothers-to-be the hospital or calling their provider believing they’re in labor. These are often called false labor contractions or practice contractions because they help exercise the uterine muscle.
Braxton-Hicks contractions are usually irregular and don’t progressively get stronger or closer together. They might feel like a tightening in your abdomen that comes and goes. Often changing position or activity can make them go away. It’s good to get familiar with how these feel so you can differentiate them from true labor contractions.
The key difference between Braxton-Hicks and true labor contractions is their pattern. Regular contractions –
- Come and go at predictable intervals
- Gradually shorten in between contractions
- Increase in intensity
This is why it’s important to time your contractions. When you feel a contraction, note the time each begins and how long it lasts.
Recognizing the signs of true labor can be confusing, even for experienced mothers who have already had a baby. Partnering with your provider through regular checkups, especially in the final months, can offer clarity and build your confidence.