8 Signs That Labor Is Near
Your body may begin to gently alert you to the impending arrival of labor as your due date draws closer. Braxton-Hicks contractions, which are typically less severe and erratic than actual labor pains, are one of the early indicators of labor. Another indication is “lightening,” which occurs when the baby descends deeper into your pelvis, facilitating breathing but increasing pressure there. Additionally, you may experience a sudden surge of energy and a strong desire to clean and organize—a natural “nesting” instinct—or notice changes in digestion, such as mild diarrhea.
Early Signs of Labor
Sometimes it’s difficult to determine if the sensations you’re experiencing are a sign that labor is approaching or if they are labor itself. Although they don’t always signify that labor has started, some early labor symptoms can show that your body is getting ready.
Baby “Drops” (Lightening)
One of the early signs of labor is when your baby “drops” lower into your pelvis—a process known as lightening. This shift happens as the baby gets into position for delivery. You might notice it’s easier to breathe since there’s less pressure on your lungs. On the flip side, you may feel more pressure on your bladder, causing more frequent bathroom trips.
Back Pain and Cramping
As your due date nears, you might start feeling lower back pain or cramps in your groin. These aches happen because your body is getting ready—muscles and joints are shifting to help with the birth process.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
You might feel tightening in your belly during the second or third trimester. These are Braxton Hicks contractions, also called “practice contractions.” They’re your body’s way of preparing for labor but aren’t as painful or regular as true contractions.
Cervical Dilation
One of the most significant signs of labor approaching is your cervix beginning to dilate. This means it’s opening up so the baby can pass through. Your OB-GYN will usually check your cervix in the weeks leading up to delivery. Once it’s fully dilated to 10 cm, it’s time to push.
Diarrhea
Hormonal changes can cause the muscles in your uterus—and even your rectum—to relax. This often leads to loose stools or diarrhea, which can be another sign that labor is on its way.
Loosening of Joints
Late in pregnancy, your body produces more of a hormone called relaxin. This helps soften and loosen the ligaments in your pelvis, making it easier for the baby to pass through the birth canal. You might notice your hips or lower back feeling loose or even wobbly.
Nesting Urge
A sudden burst of energy or an urge to clean and organize—known as the nesting instinct—is another common sign of labor nearing. It’s your body’s way of preparing your home and space for the new arrival.
Losing the Mucus Plug
Another one of the signs of labor is losing your mucus plug. This thick piece of mucus blocks the cervix during pregnancy. When it comes out—sometimes with slight blood streaks—it usually means the cervix is opening up. This could happen days or even weeks before labor actually starts.
Are You in Active Labor?
1. Belly and Lower Back Pain
One of the first noticeable signs of labor is cramping or sharp pain in the lower abdomen. This discomfort often feels like intense menstrual cramps and can spread to the lower back. As labor progresses, these pains usually become stronger and more frequent.
2. Bloody Show
If you notice a thick vaginal discharge that appears brownish or reddish, you may be experiencing what’s known as a bloody show. This happens when the cervix starts to open (dilate), causing small blood vessels to break. It’s a common indicator that labor may begin soon.
3. Contractions
Understanding the difference between real contractions and Braxton-Hicks (false labor) is key. Braxton-Hicks contractions tend to be irregular, mild, and stop when you change positions or rest.
Real labor contractions, on the other hand, become increasingly strong, consistent, and painful over time. These true labor contractions don’t ease up whether you’re lying down, walking, or sitting—they only get more intense.
4. Water Breaking
Breaking water is another obvious sign of labor. This occurs when the fluid-filled amniotic sac, which shields your unborn child, bursts. A tiny trickle or an abrupt gush of fluid may be released.
Unlike urine, amniotic fluid is typically clear and has a subtle, pleasant scent. It’s critical to get in touch with your OB-GYN or other healthcare provider if you think your water has broken. Antibiotics might be required in certain situations to stop infections.
| False Labor | Real Labor |
|---|---|
| Contraction pain stays the same | Contraction pain steadily intensifies |
| Contractions remain spaced apart | Time between contractions gets shorter and more consistent |
| Contractions come and go randomly | Contractions follow a regular pattern |
| Walking or changing position eases the pain | Movement doesn’t help with the pain |
FAQs
1. What are the most common early signs that labor is near?
Signs that labor may be approaching include the baby “dropping” (lightening), increased back pain or cramps, Braxton-Hicks contractions, diarrhea, loose joints (due to Relaxin), nesting instinct, and losing the mucus plug Health.
2. How can you tell the difference between Braxton-Hicks contractions and true labor contractions?
Braxton-Hicks (“practice”) contractions are irregular, mild, and don’t increase in intensity or frequency. True labor contractions are regular, grow stronger and closer together, and continue despite movement or rest Health.
3. What does losing the mucus plug mean, and when does it happen?
The mucus plug is a thick, protective barrier sealing the cervix. When it’s released—sometimes mixed with blood (bloody show)—it signals that the cervix is dilating and labor is likely to start soon, though it may still be hours or days away
4. What exactly is the “bloody show”?
The bloody show refers to passage of blood-tinged mucus due to the cervix thinning and dilating. It often appears jelly-like and usually occurs a few days before labor begins, indicating imminent active labor
5. When should I go to the hospital or call my OB-GYN?
Head to the hospital or contact your provider if:
Regular, painful contractions grow stronger and closer together
Your water breaks (amniotic sac ruptures)
You experience a preterm sign—like regular contractions before 37 weeks
You lose the mucus plug too early (before full-term)
The Bottom Line
Expectant parents can feel less nervous and more prepared as the big day draws near by being aware of the symptoms of labor. Every pregnancy is unique, even though common symptoms include lower back pain, contractions, and a “bloody show.” Do not be afraid to contact your healthcare provider if you are unsure if you are in actual labor. Keep yourself informed, trust your body, and never forget that it’s always acceptable to seek assistance when unsure.
