Early Signs of Labor
Knowing the early signs of labor can be a relief because it makes it easier to assess when it makes sense to rest, prepare, or contact the maternity ward. At the same time, it is important to know that the signs can appear in different orders and with very different clarity from person to person. Therefore, use the signals as guideposts, not as a "schedule."
Beginning of Labor: How the Early Phase Can Feel
The beginning of labor is often called the latent phase. Here, the uterus can begin to work, and the body can slowly prepare for active labor. You may experience aching in the lower abdomen, pressure downwards, or periods of restless nights where you can't quite find peace.
What can you do right now?
Prioritize rest, light food and fluids, and try to alternate between lying down and gentle movement. Many benefit from a warm bath or a heating pad on their lower back. If you are unsure about where you are in the process, it is perfectly relevant to call the maternity ward to discuss your symptoms.
Contractions as an Early Sign of Labor: Practice or Labor?
Contractions are among the most central early signs of labor, but they can start gently and irregularly. Early contractions can resemble menstrual cramps, abdominal tightening, or a wave-like pain that comes and goes.
Practical Rule of Thumb for Observing Contractions
Note for 1-2 hours:
- How often they come (interval)
- How long they last
- Whether they become stronger and more regular
If contractions increase in strength, become more regular, and do not disappear with rest, it may indicate that labor is establishing itself. For severe pain, concern, or if you have previously had a fast labor, you should contact the maternity ward sooner rather than later.
Mucus Plug and Discharge: What Does it Mean?
The discharge of the mucus plug can be an early sign of labor. It can appear as thick, sticky mucus, clear, yellowish, or with a few streaks of blood. This can happen days or weeks before labor begins, and therefore, it alone does not mean that labor is imminent.
When is Blood in Discharge Important?
A little blood-tinged mucus can be normal, but fresh bleeding like during menstruation or more should always be assessed by healthcare professionals. It's better to call once too often if you are unsure.
Water Breaking: A Sign You Should Not Overlook
When your water breaks, it can feel like a distinct "pop," but it can also be a trickling fluid that dampens your underwear again and again. Water breaking is a signal you must react to, because both the timing and how you should proceed depend on the situation (for example, the color of the fluid and whether you are having contractions).
It's a Good Idea to Pay Attention to
- Time of water breaking
- Color (clear, pinkish, green, or brownish)
- Does it smell different from urine?
Contact the maternity ward if you suspect your water has broken so you can get specific guidance.
When to Contact a Midwife or the Maternity Ward?
You should contact the maternity ward if your water breaks, if you have persistent and increasing contractions, or if you feel anything that makes you uneasy. In addition, you should seek help immediately for heavy bleeding, fever, severe constant pain, or if you experience significantly reduced fetal movement.
Prepare a Short Message
Having the following ready can make the call easier: gestational week, when symptoms started, whether you have contractions, your water breaking, bleeding, and how the baby is moving.
Products That Can Support You During the Wait
As your body works towards labor, comfort and support can make a practical difference in everyday life. An adjustable support belt can relieve your lower back and abdomen when you feel pressure and discomfort, e.g., the Maternity Support Belt. If you also experience breast tenderness and tension towards the end of pregnancy, a soft and supportive maternity and nursing bra without underwire can be comfortable, e.g., the Gel-Support® Maternity & Nursing Bra, which is designed for flexible support without blocking milk ducts.