The signs you need to look out for
During the last few weeks of pregnancy, you may be aware that you’re going through a number of physical and psychological changes, such as varying emotions, a surge of energy, or nesting instinct.
Physically, the influence of your hormones will cause your pubic bone to widen and your pelvic floor to relax and soften enabling your baby to engage further into your pelvis. Although doesn’t necessarily mean labour is about to start, you may notice your bump dropping and the pressure on your stomach and lungs lessening (traditionally called lightening, and a more common thing for with first time mothers). The pressure of your baby’s head on your bladder may also increase the frequency you need to race to the toilet! You may also notice an increase in your vaginal secretions.
The onset of labour can happen in many different ways. Often it can start with just some cramping or lower back aches – similar to period pains that will slowly increase in intensity and length. You might find your bowels loosen more in the days approaching labour, while some women may notice they have slowed down even more. You might feel nauseous or bloated when you haven’t previously, or notice a return to feeling nausea like you did in early pregnancy.
You might find you have spurious, or false labour contractions in the weeks approaching labour, and you might also be aware of tightenings of your uterus that are coming irregularly. For more information on these, you can refer to the contractions section on this site.
The cervix which until now has remained close and firm will become softer and able to dilate. Some other signs of approaching labour may include:
Your “show”
Your “show” is a plug of mucous that has been blocking the opening of your cervix. It helps to maintain your uterus as a sterile environment for your developing baby by keeping bacteria out. As you cervix begins to soften and dilate, it will often dislodge, either in small or large amounts This jelly-like mucous can be blood stained, pink or clear and can discharge before labour or within a few hours of it starting.
Your “waters” breaking
The best time for your membranes around your baby to break is at the end of the first stage of labour after your cervix is fully dilated and no longer supporting the sac of amniotic fluid. As your uterus contracts, this will help break the membrane. However, your waters can break days before labour begins, or at the beginning of the first stage too, or they could remain intact right up until the birth of your baby. Sometimes a baby is born still in their sac! (This was traditionally known as a ‘caul’ birth.)
If your waters break, it is time to notify your midwife or doctor, even if you are not in labour. It’s also important to take note of the colour of your amniotic fluid. It should be clear or straw colour. It may also have a pink tinge, so let your health care professional know if it is any other colour. If you are unsure that your waters have broken, since they can come out at any speed from a trickle to a gush then wear a sanitary pad and check it in a couple of hours. Tell your doctor or midwife even if you are unsure.
Early labour can take time to establish. Read our section on the stages of labour for additional information.
When should I call my health care professional?
As soon as you think you’re in the early stages of labour, get in contact with your health care professional. They’ll want to know the timings of your contractions and will ask you about any other signs. Together you can devise a care plan while waiting for your labour to establish and they’ll help to advise you on when you should go to hospital. Remember, if your waters have broken you should always call them straight away. If you have any concerns about yourself or your baby then always contact your midwife or doctor immediately.