Early Signs and Symptoms of Labour: A Concise Guide for Expecting Mothers

Labour is a momentous event in pregnancy, often stirring a mix of excitement and nervousness. As the big day approaches, many expecting mothers wonder how to know when it’s truly time. The body begins to give subtle, yet important, signs that labour is near. Recognising these early symptoms can help you feel more prepared and less anxious as you approach this life-changing moment. From changes in contractions to shifts in energy levels, these signs are your body’s way of letting you know it’s almost time. This guide will highlight the key signs that indicate labour may be starting soon, offering clarity and reassurance during this important time. Before that, let’s take a look at the basics of labour. 

What is Labour?

Labour is the process by which the body prepares for the birth of the baby. It involves a series of physical changes that allow the baby to move from the uterus through the birth canal and into the world. Labour is typically divided into three main stages, each with its own set of characteristics.

First Stage: Early Labour and Active Labour

The first stage begins when regular contractions start to open (dilate) and thin out (efface) the cervix. Early labour can be lengthy, lasting several hours or even days, with contractions being mild and irregular. As the cervix continues to dilate, active labour begins, where contractions become stronger, more frequent, and longer, typically lasting 60 seconds and occurring every 3-5 minutes. This stage can be intense, and many people will head to the hospital or contact their healthcare provider at this point.

Second Stage: Delivery of the Baby

The second stage starts once the cervix is fully dilated (10 cm). This stage involves pushing to help move the baby through the birth canal. Contractions become more powerful, and there is a strong urge to push with each contraction. The length of this stage can vary, lasting from a few minutes to several hours, depending on factors such as the baby’s position and whether it is the first pregnancy.

Third Stage: Delivery of the Placenta

After the baby is born, the third stage of labour begins. This involves the delivery of the placenta, the organ that nourished the baby during pregnancy. The uterus will continue to contract, helping to expel the placenta. This stage typically lasts between 5 and 30 minutes and is generally quicker than the previous two.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Labour

As labour approaches, the body gives various signs that it’s preparing for childbirth. Recognising these early signs and symptoms can help in understanding when labour may be starting, allowing for better preparation and reducing any uncertainty. While every pregnancy is different, there are a few common signs to look out for in the days or hours before active labour begins.

Lightening

Lightening occurs when the baby drops lower into the pelvis in preparation for birth. This can happen a few weeks before labour or right before it begins. Many mothers feel relief from the pressure on their lungs and diaphragm, but may experience increased pressure on the bladder, leading to more frequent urination.

Increased Discharge

As the cervix begins to soften and open, it’s common to notice an increase in vaginal discharge. This discharge may be thick, clear, or slightly bloody, which is known as the "bloody show." This is a sign that the cervix is beginning to dilate in preparation for labour.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

These are often called "practice contractions." They are irregular, painless, and can occur sporadically throughout the pregnancy, but they may become more noticeable as the body prepares for labour. Braxton Hicks contractions are typically not a sign of active labour, but they can sometimes be mistaken for the real thing.

Cervical Dilation

In the days or hours leading up to labour, the cervix begins to dilate and efface (thin out). This process is gradual and may be monitored by a healthcare provider through vaginal exams. It’s important to note that some dilation can happen in the weeks leading up to active labour, so it doesn’t necessarily mean that labour is imminent.

Changes in Energy Levels

In the days before labour, some women may experience a burst of energy, commonly referred to as "nesting." Others may feel unusually tired or fatigued as the body starts conserving energy for the upcoming process.

Back Pain and Cramps

Lower back pain and cramping are common signs that labour could be approaching. These sensations often come and go and may feel similar to period cramps. They can be caused by the baby’s position or early contractions that are preparing the body for birth.

Loose or Frequent Bowel Movements

Hormonal changes before labour can affect the digestive system, leading to more frequent bowel movements or a feeling of diarrhoea. This can happen in the days leading up to labour and may be a result of the body clearing out in preparation for the baby’s arrival.

Recognising these early signs can help in knowing when to prepare for the next phase of pregnancy. While these symptoms are common, each pregnancy is unique, and some women may experience different signs or no signs at all before labour begins. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure everything is progressing as it should.

What’s the Difference Between Braxton Hicks and Real Contractions?

Tracking Contractions During Early Labour

Timing contractions is a crucial step in determining the progress of labour. Knowing how often contractions are occurring, how long they last, and how intense they feel can help you understand when it’s time to seek medical help or head to the hospital. Here’s a more detailed guide to timing contractions during early labour:

Start Timing the Contraction

Begin by tracking when the contraction starts. This is usually when the uterus starts tightening, and you feel the sensation in the abdomen. Use a stopwatch, a timer, or one of the many contraction timing apps available to track each contraction. You should note the time the contraction begins to help keep track of the intervals.

Measure the Duration of the Contraction

Track how long each contraction lasts from start to finish. Early labour contractions tend to be short, lasting between 30 to 45 seconds, though the duration may vary. Start timing as soon as you feel the tightening, and stop once the feeling eases. It’s important to measure the full duration of the contraction, including both the build-up and the release.

Track the Frequency of the Contractions

Measure the time between the start of one contraction and the start of the next. In early labour, contractions may begin to occur around 10 to 15 minutes apart, but this will vary. In the beginning, they may be irregular, but as labour progresses, they should become more frequent, often ranging from 5 to 10 minutes apart as the body prepares for active labour.

Look for Regularity in the Contractions

In the early stages of labour, contractions may come and go irregularly. However, as time passes, these contractions will become more regular and consistent. You may notice that they follow a pattern, such as coming every 10 minutes or less. As the contractions intensify, they will also become more frequent and last longer, making the intervals shorter.

Intensity of the Contractions

During early labour, contractions may feel like mild cramping or a tightening sensation in the abdomen. As labour progresses, they will become more intense, and the pain will increase in duration and strength. The intensity is a critical factor in determining when to seek help. If contractions become too painful to walk or talk through, it’s a sign that they are becoming more effective at dilating the cervix.

What Happens When Your Water Breaks?

When your water breaks, the amniotic sac surrounding the baby ruptures, releasing the fluid. This can happen as a small trickle or a large gush. Here's what to know:

• Before Labour: If the water breaks before contractions start, it's called premature rupture of membranes (PROM). Labour may need to be induced.
• During Labour: If it breaks during labour, it’s a sign the body is preparing for the next stage of delivery. Contractions may intensify after this.
• What to Do: Note when your water breaks, how much fluid is released, and its colour. Clear fluid is normal, but if it’s greenish or brown, it may signal meconium, requiring medical attention.
• No Water Breaking?: Not all women experience their water breaking naturally; it may need to be done by a healthcare provider during labour.

If your water breaks, contact your healthcare provider for guidance on the next steps.

When Should You Call Your Doctor or Head to the Hospital?

Knowing when to call your doctor or head to the hospital is crucial during early labour. Here are the key signs that indicate it’s time:

• Regular and Intense Contractions: If contractions are occurring every 5 minutes, lasting 60 seconds, and becoming increasingly intense, it’s time to contact your doctor or head to the hospital.
• Water Breaking: If your water breaks, even if you’re not having contractions yet, contact your doctor immediately. This could indicate that labour is starting or progressing.
• Heavy Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding or large clots, seek medical attention right away. Spotting is normal, but heavy bleeding can signal complications.
• Severe Pain: If you experience severe or unusual pain, especially if it’s not typical of labour contractions, reach out to your healthcare provider for advice.
• Other Concerns or Complications: If you notice reduced fetal movement, feel faint, or experience dizziness, it’s important to contact your doctor or head to the hospital immediately for assistance.

Consult Today

If you have any concerns or need guidance at any point during your pregnancy, the obstetricians, gynaecologists, and maternity care experts at Max Hospital are here to provide the support and care you need. Trust in their experience to guide you through this exciting time, offering tailored advice for you and your baby. Don't hesitate to reach out to Max Hospital to ensure your well-being and peace of mind as you approach the big day.