In the movies, babies are often born quickly and in dramatic fashion.
The mother doubles over from the pain of a single contraction and suddenly the baby appears.
In reality, however, labor usually takes timeand the early signs of labor can be subtle.
Here’s what you oughta know about the common signs of labor.
As labor begins, your cervix softens, shortens and thins (effacement).
You might feel uncomfortable, but irregular, not very painful contractions or nothing at all.
Effacement is often expressed in percentages.
Your cervix must be 100 percent effaced, or completely thinned out, before a vaginal delivery.
Another sign of labor is your cervix beginning to open (dilate).
At first, these cervical changes can be very slow.
Once you’re in active labor, expect to dilate more quickly.
During pregnancy, a thick plug of mucus blocks the cervical opening to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus.
During the late third trimester, this plug might be pushed into your vagina.
You might notice an increase in vaginal discharge that’s clear, pink or slightly bloody.
This might happen several days before labor begins or at the start of labor.
Heavy vaginal bleeding could be a sign of a problem.
This urge is commonly known as the nesting instinct.
Do what you must, but don’t wear yourself out.
stash your energy for the harder work of labor ahead.
Lightening is the term used to describe when the baby’s head settles deep into your pelvis.
This might cause a change in the shape of your abdomen.
This change can happen anywhere from a few weeks to a few hours before labor begins.
The amniotic sac is a fluid-filled membrane that cushions your baby in the uterus.
At the beginning of or during labor, your membranes will rupturealso known as your water breaking.
You and your baby will be evaluated to determine the next steps.
Once your amniotic sac is no longer intact, timing becomes important.
Your health care provider might stimulate uterine contractions before labor begins on its own (labor induction).
These are called Braxton Hicks contractions.
Sometimes it’s hard to tell when labor begins.
Don’t hesitate to call your health care provider if you’re confused about whether you’re in labor.
Preterm labor can be especially sneaky.
If you arrive at the hospital in false labor, don’t feel embarrassed or frustrated.
Think of it as a practice run.
The real thing is likely on its way.
Updated: 5/14/2019
Publication Date: 3/17/2003
