As your due date approaches, your body may start to give small and large signals that labor is on its way. Some experience clear changes, while others hardly notice anything until contractions begin. Here you will find a practical overview of the most common signs that labor is approaching, what they can mean, and when it makes sense to contact the labor ward or your midwife.

Braxton Hicks contractions are the uterus's "practice contractions." They can feel like a hard stomach, pressure, or menstrual-like aching, and they can occur irregularly. For many, they increase in the days or weeks leading up to birth, without necessarily meaning that labor will start right away.

As a rule of thumb, contractions are more often a sign of labor when they:

• come regularly and become more frequent
• last longer each time
• increase in strength
• continue even if you change position, rest, or take a bath

If in doubt, it's better to call one time too many than one time too few and get a professional assessment.

Many notice the mucus plug (thick, jelly-like mucus from the cervix) coming out in the days before birth. It can come out whole or in clumps and can be clear, yellowish, or slightly blood-tinged.

A smaller amount of blood-tinged mucus is often called a bloody show and may be associated with the cervix ripening and beginning to open. This is typically a normal sign, but the amount and context matter.

Contact the labor ward/midwife if you experience fresh bleeding like a menstrual period or more, or if you also have severe pain or feel uneasy.

Water breaking can be a distinct "gush," but it can also be a slow leak. If you suspect you have lost amniotic fluid, it's a good idea to contact the labor ward for guidance. They can help assess whether it's water breaking and what the next steps are.

When you call, it can be helpful to know:

• time of water breaking/leaking
• color (clear, pink, green, or brown)
• smell (amniotic fluid often has a mild smell)
• if the baby is moving as usual

Green or brown amniotic fluid should be assessed quickly.

As the baby moves further down into the pelvis, you may experience more downward pressure, more frequent bathroom trips, and perhaps sharp pains or stitches in the lower abdomen. Some also experience their belly "dropping," making it easier to breathe but heavier to walk long distances.

Other common changes may include:

• lower back pain or menstrual-like pain
• loose stools or nausea
• a strong urge to clean, organize, and get "ready" (for some, not all)

These signs can be your body's way of preparing, but they don't indicate exactly when labor will start.

As a practical guideline, you should contact the labor ward or relevant emergency number if you experience:

• water breaking (sudden or leaking)
• regular, increasing contractions
• less fetal movement than usual
• heavy bleeding
• strong, constant pain that doesn't come in waves like contractions
• fever or clear signs of illness close to birth

Always follow the local guidelines you have received from your midwife or birthing center.

As the body prepares, comfort and support can make everyday life easier, especially with pressure and lower back fatigue. An adjustable support belt can relieve your abdomen and back if you need extra support in the latter part of pregnancy: Support belts / maternity belts. And if you want to be calmly prepared for the post-birth period now, a comprehensive postpartum care pack can be practical to have ready: New Mum Care Pack.