As your due date gets closer, every twinge can make you wonder, “Is this it?” Knowing the signs of labour — and when to go to the hospital — helps you stay calm and arrive at the right time. Here is what to look out for, and the warning signs that mean you should come in straight away.
Early signs that labour is near
In the last few weeks, your body starts preparing. These signs mean labour may be days or a couple of weeks away:
- The baby “drops”: breathing becomes easier but you need to pass urine more often, as the baby’s head moves down into the pelvis (more common in first pregnancies).
- More vaginal discharge, which may be thicker.
- Backache or period-like cramps that come and go.
- Loose stools or an upset stomach.
- Practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) that tighten the tummy but do not get stronger.
The main signs that labour has started
Regular contractions
True labour contractions come at regular intervals and get longer, stronger and closer together. They often start in the lower back and spread to the front, and do not settle when you rest or change position.
A “show”
During pregnancy, a plug of mucus seals the cervix. As the cervix starts to open, this plug comes away as sticky, jelly-like pink or slightly blood-stained mucus. A show means things are starting to change, but labour may still be hours or days away. Heavy, bright-red bleeding is not a show — come in immediately.
Waters breaking
The bag of fluid around the baby can break as a sudden gush or a slow trickle you cannot control. Note the time and the colour of the fluid, wear a pad (not a tampon) and contact the hospital — even if you have no contractions.
True labour vs false labour
| False labour (Braxton Hicks) | True labour | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Irregular, do not get closer together | Regular, and get closer together |
| Strength | Stay the same or fade | Steadily get stronger |
| With rest or a change of position | Often stop | Continue |
| Where you feel them | Mostly the front of the tummy | Often begin in the back and move to the front |
When should you go to the hospital?
The NHS advises calling your maternity unit when you have regular contractions every 5 minutes or more often. If you have had a baby before, labour is often quicker, so come in a little earlier. In Pune, also allow for traffic — plan your route to the hospital and keep transport ready from 37 weeks.
Come to the hospital immediately if:
- Your waters break — especially if the fluid is green, brown or smelly
- You have vaginal bleeding
- Your baby is moving less than usual
- You are less than 37 weeks pregnant and think you might be in labour
- A contraction lasts longer than 2 minutes, or you have 6 or more contractions in 10 minutes
- You have a severe headache, blurred vision, sudden swelling of the face or hands, fever, or constant severe tummy pain
The stages of labour
- First stage: contractions open (dilate) the cervix to 10 cm. The early (latent) phase can last many hours, especially with a first baby; the active phase is faster and more intense.
- Second stage: pushing and the birth of your baby.
- Third stage: delivery of the placenta, usually within an hour of the birth.
Hospital bag checklist
- Documents: antenatal file, scan and blood reports, ID (Aadhaar), and insurance card or policy details
- For you: loose front-opening gowns, maternity pads, nursing bras, slippers, toiletries and a phone charger
- For your baby: soft cotton clothes, cap, socks, swaddle cloths, diapers and a warm blanket
Frequently asked questions
How long does early labour last?
With a first baby, the early (latent) phase can last many hours and sometimes stops and starts over a day or two. Staying at home, eating light food, drinking fluids and resting is usually fine — unless any warning sign appears.
My waters broke but I have no contractions. What should I do?
Contact the hospital and come in to be checked, even without contractions. The doctor will examine you, check the baby and advise whether to wait for labour or start it, to lower the risk of infection.
Should I eat during early labour?
Light, easy-to-digest food such as khichdi, toast or fruit, and plenty of fluids, can give you energy in early labour. Avoid heavy, oily meals.
Can I tell if labour is coming soon from the baby dropping?
Not exactly. In a first pregnancy the baby often drops two to four weeks before labour; in later pregnancies it may not happen until labour starts.
24×7 labour and emergency care in Hadapsar
Umang Hospital’s labour room and emergency team are available 24 hours a day, every day. If you think you are in labour or notice any warning sign, call +91 98907 99898 and come in. Learn more about our maternity and normal delivery care and how to reach us.
References
- NHS — Signs that labour has begun
- NHS — The stages of labour and birth
- ACOG — How to tell when labor begins
Medical disclaimer: this article is for general information and does not replace a consultation. Every pregnancy and every body is different — please speak to your doctor about your own situation.