What to expect when your baby is getting ready to arrive?
One of the most common questions first-time mums ask is: “How will I know when labour has started?” The truth is that labour rarely begins like it does in the movies (sudden dramatic water breaking and rushing to hospital!). For most women, labour builds gradually, and there are several signs that your body may be preparing for birth. Here are some of the most common early signs and symptoms of labour.
In the days or weeks before labour, many first-time mums notice their baby moving lower into the pelvis. This is sometimes called lightening. You may notice:
• More pressure in your pelvis
• Walking feels a little awkward
• You may need to urinate more often
• Breathing may feel easier because baby is lower
For first-time mums, this can happen a few weeks before labour actually starts.
During pregnancy, a mucus plug sits in the cervix to protect the uterus.As the cervix begins to soften and open, this mucus can come away. This is called a “show.”
It may appear as:
• Thick mucus
• Clear, pink, or slightly blood-stained discharge
• A small amount or several episodes over a few days. A show can mean labour is approaching, but it doesn’t always mean labour will start immediately. It could still be hours or even days away.
Early labour contractions often feel very similar to strong period cramps. You might notice:
• Dull aching in the lower back
• Cramping in the lower abdomen
• Tightening across the belly
• Discomfort that comes and goes
At first these sensations can be irregular and mild, but they gradually become stronger and more regular.
True labour contractions have a pattern.
They usually:
• Become regular
• Get stronger over time
• Last longer
• Become closer together
Early labour contractions might feel manageable and spaced out. As labour progresses they become more intense and harder to ignore.
A good rule of thumb is to contact your midwife when contractions are:
• Regular
• Increasing in strength
• Around every 3–5 minutes
• Lasting about 60 seconds (Your midwife will guide you based on your individual situation.)
Your amniotic sac may rupture before or during labour.
This can feel like:
• A sudden gush of fluid
• A slow trickle that continues
The fluid is usually clear or pale straw coloured. If your waters break, it's important to let your midwife or care provider know, especially if:
• The fluid is green or brown
• You develop a fever
• Your baby’s movements change
Some women experience a burst of energy just before labour begins — often called the “nesting instinct.” You might suddenly feel the urge to clean, organise, or prepare things for baby. Others feel the opposite and become very tired, which is also normal. Labour requires a lot of energy, so your body may be encouraging you to rest and conserve energy.
If you're unsure whether labour has started, it’s always okay to reach out to your midwife for guidance. You should contact your care provider if:
• Your waters break
• Contractions become regular and strong
• You have bleeding like a period
• Baby’s movements reduce
• You feel worried or unsure
Remember — no question is ever a silly question when it comes to your baby.
Labour is a unique experience for every woman, and no two births are exactly the same. For first-time mums especially, early labour can take time, sometimes many hours or even a day or more. This is completely normal and allows your body to gradually prepare for birth. Trust your body, stay in touch with your midwife, and know that you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Your body has been preparing for this moment throughout your entire pregnancy.