Signs Your Labour Has Begun

Labour is the process by which your baby is born.

It involves contractions of the uterus, dilation of the cervix, and the eventual delivery of your baby.
 

Labour usually starts naturally between 38 and 42 weeks of pregnancy, but every pregnancy is different.

While every pregnancy is unique, there are several common signs that labour may be approaching:

 

• Baby Drops: Your baby moves lower into the pelvis, which can increase pressure but may also make it easier to breathe.

 

• Cervix Dilates: The cervix begins to thin and open in preparation for birth.

 

• Increased Back Pain and Cramping: As your body prepares for labour, you may experience more frequent cramping and lower back pain.

 

• Diarrhoea or Loose Stools: Hormonal changes before labour can cause digestive changes.

 

• Nesting Instinct: A sudden burst of energy and the urge to clean or prepare your home.

• Contractions: True labour contractions are regular, increase in intensity, and do not go away with movement or rest.

 

• A ‘Show’: The mucus plug that has been sealing your cervix may come away, appearing as a pink or brown discharge.

 

• Backache: A persistent heavy or aching feeling in your lower back.

 

• Urge to Go to the Toilet: Your baby’s head pressing on your bowel may create the urge to pass stool.

 

• Waters Breaking: The amniotic sac ruptures, leading to a gush or trickle of fluid from the vagina.

Some women experience less common signs of labour, including:

 

• A Sudden Feeling of Pressure: A strong pressure sensation in the pelvis or rectum.

 

• Flu-like Symptoms: Some women feel unusually tired, nauseous, or have mild fever-like symptoms.

 

• Mood Swings: Hormonal changes can cause sudden emotional shifts.

Labour progresses in different stages:

 

• Latent Phase: The cervix begins to soften and open, and contractions may be irregular

 

• Active Labour: Contractions become stronger and more frequent, and the cervix dilates further.

 

• Transition Phase: The cervix reaches full dilation (10 cm), and contractions are very strong.

 

• Pushing Stage: The baby moves down the birth canal, and you may feel an intense urge to push.

 

• Delivery of the Placenta: After your baby is born, the placenta is delivered.

If you experience regular contractions, your waters break, or you have heavy bleeding, contact your midwife or hospital immediately.

Yes, some women experience their waters breaking or lose their mucus plug before contractions begin.

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and tend to ease with movement or hydration. True labour contractions are regular, intensify over time, and do not stop.

Recognising the signs of labour can help you feel more prepared and in control.

If you have any concerns or are unsure whether labour has started, contact your midwife or maternity unit for guidance.