Labor does not always begin with one dramatic sign. Some changes happen days or weeks beforehand, while others mean it is time to call your maternity care team.
Signs labor may be beginning
- Contractions: True labor contractions usually follow a pattern, become stronger, and move closer together over time. They often continue despite rest, hydration, or changing position.
- Your water breaks: This may feel like a gush or a steady trickle of fluid. Call your obstetric clinician or birth unit and follow their instructions, even if contractions have not started.
- Mucus plug or “bloody show”: Clear, pink, or lightly blood-tinged mucus can appear as the cervix begins to change. Heavy bleeding is not normal.
- Back or pelvic sensations: Cramping, low back discomfort, pelvic pressure, or a feeling that the baby has dropped may occur as labor approaches.
When should I call?
Before your due date, ask your care team exactly when they want you to call and where they want you to go. Contact them if you think labor has started or if you are unsure. Call immediately if your water breaks.
Go for urgent assessment now if
- You have heavy vaginal bleeding
- You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions
- Your baby's movement has slowed or stopped
- You have severe headache, vision changes, chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or another urgent maternal warning sign
Before 37 weeks
Possible labor before 37 weeks needs prompt evaluation. Call your clinician or go to the hospital right away for regular or frequent tightening, pelvic pressure, a constant low backache, menstrual-like cramps, a change in discharge, or leaking fluid. Contractions can be painless.
A practical plan
- Save your provider's daytime and after-hours numbers.
- Know which hospital or birth location to use and how long the trip takes.
- Ask how to time contractions and when your individual health history changes the plan.
- Trust your concern: if something feels wrong, call.
This article provides general education. Follow the individualized instructions from your own obstetric care team.
