Signs of labor and when to go in
How to tell labor from practice contractions, how to time contractions, what early labor at home looks like, and the signs that mean you should call straight away.
Every labor is different, and it can be hard to tell when it has really started, especially the first time. Knowing the signs, and knowing who to call, helps you stay calm. Before the last few weeks, ask your maternity unit or hospital when they'd like you to call, and save their number in your phone.
Signs labor may be starting
A contraction feels like a tightening of your whole belly that builds, peaks and then eases off. At first contractions may feel like period pains, and they can start in your back.
A show can happen days before labor starts. From 37 weeks, a show on its own usually doesn't mean you need to go in. Before 37 weeks, call your maternity unit straight away if you have a show, regular tightenings, any fluid leaking or any bleeding. If you think your water has broken, put on a pad, not a tampon, so you can check the color of the fluid, and note the time.
Practice contractions or the real thing?
Braxton Hicks tightenings are common in the last months. They're usually irregular, don't get stronger, and often fade when you rest, walk or change position. Labor contractions keep coming, get stronger and closer together, and don't ease when you move. If you're not sure, call and ask. That's what your team is there for.
Timing your contractions
Note the start
Write down the time each contraction begins.
Measure the gap
Time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.
Note how long each one lasts
Count from when the tightening starts to when it eases.
A common guide for a first baby is to call when contractions come about every five minutes, last about a minute each, and have kept that pattern for about an hour. Your team may give you different advice, for example if you've given birth before, live a long way from the hospital, or have a medical reason to come in sooner.
Early labor at home
Early labor can last many hours, especially with a first baby, and is often more comfortable at home if your team agrees. Stay upright and keep moving, rest between contractions, sip drinks and eat light snacks. A warm shower, slow breathing and massage can all help. If it's night, try to rest or doze between contractions, as labor can be long. Your birth partner, if you have one, can time contractions, keep you company and get things ready.
When to call straight away
Call your maternity unit or hospital straight away if your water breaks, you have any bleeding (more than a streak of blood in the mucus), your baby is moving less than usual, you have constant or severe pain, or you feel feverish or unwell. Call straight away too if you have regular contractions, or your water breaks, before 37 weeks.
If the fluid is green, brown or smells bad, tell your team when you call, as your baby may need checking quickly. If you have heavy bleeding, can see or feel the umbilical cord, or your baby is coming very fast, call emergency services.
If your due date passes
Few babies arrive exactly on their due date, and going past it is common, especially with a first baby. Your team will offer extra checks and talk to you about induction. Keep noticing your baby's movements right up to and during labor, and call if they slow down, stop or change.
Keep your bag, prenatal records, phone charger and the number to call by the door. If you're unsure whether it's time, calling early is always better than waiting.
For information only — not medical advice. If something doesn't feel right, contact your midwife or doctor.
Sources
NHS — Your pregnancy and baby guide (nhs.uk/pregnancy)
ACOG — Patient FAQs (acog.org/womens-health/faqs)
WHO — Recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience
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