Signs of labor

Is today the day the baby comes? Every mom has a different labor experience—some start with your water breaking, you may have a daylong backache that turns into labor contractions, or labor contractions could start suddenly without any warning signs of labor!

What are the stages of labor?

There are three stages of labor.

• During the first stage, the cervix thins and dilates, and regular contractions begin.
• The second stage involves pushing the baby through your birth canal.
• The third stage is the shortest and easiest: cutting the umbilical cord and expelling the placenta.

Learn more about the stages of labor.

What are the signs of labor?

There are a lot of different signs that you could be in labor, some more obvious than others.

If you think you’re in labor, call your doctor, midwife or nurse line. They can answer any questions about when you should come to the hospital.

Possible signs of labor 

• Nagging backache causing restlessness and a need to keep changing positions.
• Several soft bowel movements, and sometimes feeling “sick” in your stomach.
• Cramps that may feel like period cramping, and the discomfort may go into the thighs of your legs.
• Unusual bursts of energy commonly called “nesting”.

Early signs

• Slippery mucus discharge from the vagina that has hints of pink or red blood, sometimes called “bloody show”.
• Contractors that are present, but do not become longer, or stronger (or are non-progressing).

Positive signs of labor

• Fluid leaking from the vagina that cannot be controlled, like when going pee. Or a gush of clear fluid suddenly. This is called a “rupture of the membranes” or “water breaking”.
• Contractions that do start to feel stronger, or become longer, and more often.

False signs of labor

• False labor contractions are irregular, weak, and occur only in the lower uterus.
• Contractions subside with movement, changing positions, lying down, or drinking fluids.

Learn more about how to tell if you’re in labor.

Warning signs of labor complications

• Heavy vaginal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, severe headache, fever, or foul smelling discharge may indicate a serious complication.
• Sudden swelling in the face, hands, or legs, along with severe headaches or vision changes, could be signs of preeclampsia.
• A noticeable decrease in fetal movement or prolonged labor without progress should be reported to your healthcare team right away.
• Severe shortness of breath, chest pain, seizures, or loss of consciousness are emergency symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Healthy ways to manage labor pain

• Focused breathing, visualization, and mindfulness techniques can help you stay calm and manage contractions more effectively.
• Changing positions frequently, walking, or using a birthing ball may ease discomfort and help labor progress naturally.
• Warm showers, baths, or applying heat to your lower back can provide soothing relief during early and active labor.
• Having a strong support system, whether it’s a partner, doula, or nurse, can offer emotional reassurance and physical comfort throughout labor.