As you approach your due date, you might find yourself analyzing every little twinge, wondering, “Is this it?” The anticipation of labor can be both exciting and nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first baby. The truth is, your body gives plenty of clues that labor is near—you just need to know what to look for!
Let’s talk about the common signs of childbirth, so you can feel confident about when it’s time to grab that hospital bag and head out the door.
Your Baby “Drops” (Lightening)
If you suddenly feel like you can breathe a little easier, it might be because your baby has dropped lower into your pelvis. This is known as lightening, and it usually happens a few weeks before labor for first-time moms (though it can happen much closer to labor in subsequent pregnancies).
You might notice:
- Less pressure on your ribs (yay, easier breathing!)
- More pressure on your bladder (boo, more bathroom trips!)
- A “heavier” sensation in your pelvis
Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “practice contractions,” are your body’s way of getting ready for the big day. They tend to be irregular and don’t increase in intensity, but in the days leading up to labor, they may feel stronger or more frequent.
How to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and real labor:
- Braxton Hicks: Irregular, stop with rest or hydration, and don’t get stronger over time.
- True Labor: Regular, intensify, and don’t go away with movement or rest.
More Pelvic Pressure and Cramping
As your body prepares for labor, you may feel more pressure in your pelvis and mild cramping that feels like period cramps. This happens as your cervix softens and your baby settles lower.
You might feel:
- A dull ache in your lower back and pelvis
- Increased discomfort when walking or standing
- A sensation like your baby is really “sitting low”
You Lose Your Mucus Plug (or Have a Bloody Show)
The mucus plug is a thick collection of cervical mucus that acts as a barrier to keep bacteria out of the uterus during pregnancy. As your cervix begins to thin and dilate, this plug is released—sometimes all at once, or in smaller pieces over time.
Some women also experience a “bloody show”, which is when the mucus plug is tinged with pink or brown blood. This is a good sign that your cervix is changing and labor could be near!
What to know:
- Losing the mucus plug doesn’t mean labor will start immediately—it could still be hours, days, or even weeks away.
- If you see heavy bleeding (more than spotting), call your provider right away.
Your Water Breaks
One of the classic signs of labor in movies is a dramatic gush of water. In reality, water breaking can be more subtle—sometimes a small trickle, other times a noticeable gush. This happens when the amniotic sac surrounding your baby ruptures.
What to do if your water breaks:
- Note the time, color, and odor of the fluid and call your provider.
- If contractions haven’t started yet, labor will likely begin soon.
- Head to the hospital if the fluid is greenish or has a foul smell, as this could indicate meconium (baby’s first poop) in the amniotic fluid.
You Feel the Urge to Nest
Suddenly have the overwhelming need to clean, organize, and prepare everything in sight? This surge of energy, known as nesting, is a common pre-labor symptom. Many moms report feeling an urgent need to get things done just before labor kicks in.
Listen to your body:
- Nesting is great, but don’t overdo it—conserve your energy for labor!
- If you’re feeling restless, use this time to double-check your hospital bag and relax as much as possible.
Diarrhea or Loose Stools
Your body has a natural way of clearing itself out before labor begins. The release of hormones (like prostaglandins) can lead to loose stools or mild diarrhea in the hours or days before labor.
If this happens:
- Stay hydrated and eat small, easy-to-digest meals.
- Know that this is your body’s way of making more room for baby!
Contractions That Don’t Go Away
The biggest sign that labor is happening is regular contractions that don’t stop and get progressively stronger.
True labor contractions:
- Come at regular intervals and get closer together over time.
- Last about 30-60 seconds in early labor, increasing in length as labor progresses.
- Continue even when you change positions, drink water, or rest.
When to Call Your Doctor or Head to the Hospital
Call your provider or go to the hospital if:
- Your water breaks, especially if the fluid is green or foul-smelling.
- You’re having contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour (5-1-1 rule) if it’s your first baby.
- You experience heavy bleeding or intense pain that doesn’t feel normal.
- You feel decreased baby movement.
Embracing the Signs of Labor
Every labor experience is different, and while some women notice multiple signs, others may have very few before active labor begins. The key is to listen to your body, stay calm, and trust that your body knows what to do.
Whether your labor starts with contractions, your water breaking, or a sudden burst of energy, one thing is certain—your baby is on the way!
