Signs of Labor: How to Know When It’s Time

As your due date draws near, every little twinge, cramp, and sensation can make you wonder: Is this it? Is this labor? The final weeks of pregnancy are a beautiful mix of anticipation and impatience. You’re so ready to meet your baby, but the uncertainty around when and how labor will start can be a source of anxiety. How do you know if it's a false alarm or the real deal?

Recognizing the signs of labor is one of the biggest questions on every soon-to-be mom's mind. While every birth story is unique, your body provides a series of clues to let you know that it’s preparing for the main event. This guide will walk you through the early and active signs of labor, help you understand the difference between true and false labor, and clarify when it’s time to grab your hospital bag and head out the door.

Early Signs of Labor: Your Body is Getting Ready

In the days or even weeks leading up to active labor, your body goes through a preparatory phase. These early signs are subtle and can vary greatly from one person to another. They are your body's way of "warming up" for the marathon of childbirth. You may experience some, all, or none of these signs.

1. The Baby "Drops" (Lightening)

One of the first signs you might notice is a feeling that the baby has moved lower into your pelvis. This is called "lightening." You might suddenly find it easier to breathe because there’s less pressure on your diaphragm. The trade-off? You’ll likely feel an increased pressure on your bladder, leading to even more frequent trips to the restroom. For first-time moms, lightening can happen a few weeks before labor begins. For subsequent pregnancies, it often doesn't happen until you're already in labor.

2. Loss of the Mucus Plug

Throughout your pregnancy, a thick plug of mucus seals your cervix to protect your baby from infection. As your cervix begins to soften and open (efface and dilate) in preparation for birth, this plug can be dislodged. You might notice a thick, stringy discharge that is clear, pinkish, or slightly tinged with brown blood. This is often referred to as the "bloody show." Labor could still be hours, days, or even a week away, but it's a definite sign that things are moving in the right direction.

3. Nesting Instinct Kicks In

Have you suddenly been struck with an overwhelming urge to clean, organize, and prepare your home for the baby? This burst of energy is known as the nesting instinct. While it’s not a medically confirmed sign of labor, many moms report feeling this intense need to get everything "just right" in the days before labor starts. It's a primal instinct to create a safe, welcoming environment for your newborn.

4. Braxton Hicks Contractions Become More Frequent

Braxton Hicks are "practice" contractions that you may have been feeling for weeks. They are your uterus's way of toning its muscles for the work ahead. In early labor, you might notice them becoming stronger, more frequent, and perhaps a bit more uncomfortable. The key difference is that they remain irregular and usually subside when you change positions, walk, or drink water.

True Labor vs. False Labor: How to Tell the Difference

This is the big question. Differentiating between real labor contractions and Braxton Hicks can be tricky. Here’s a simple chart to help you distinguish between the two.

If you're ever unsure, it’s always best to call your doctor or midwife. They can help you assess your symptoms over the phone.

Active Labor: When Things Get Real

Active labor is when the signs become undeniable. Your body is now working hard to bring your baby into the world. This is when you’ll need to put your birth plan and coping techniques into practice.

1. Contractions Become Stronger and More Regular

This is the most definitive sign of labor. True labor contractions will intensify and fall into a consistent pattern. They won’t go away with movement. You'll need to focus and breathe through them. A common guideline for first-time moms to follow is the 5-1-1 Rule.

• Contractions come every 5 minutes.

• Each contraction lasts for about 1 minute.

• This pattern has been consistent for at least 1 hour.

2. Your Water Breaks

The "water breaking" is the rupture of the amniotic sac surrounding your baby. For most women, this doesn't happen in a dramatic gush like in the movies. It might feel like a slow, uncontrollable trickle of fluid or a small pop followed by a gush. The fluid should be colorless and odorless. If you suspect your water has broken, you should call your doctor or midwife immediately, even if contractions haven't started. They will likely want you to come to the hospital to reduce the risk of infection. It's important to note that only about 10-15% of women experience their water breaking before contractions begin.

When to Go to the Hospital or Birth Center

Knowing when to head to the hospital is key. Arriving too early can lead to unnecessary interventions or being sent home, while waiting too long can create a stressful, rushed experience.

Call your doctor or midwife immediately if:

• You think your water has broken (note the time, color, and amount).

• You are experiencing bright red vaginal bleeding (more than just a "bloody show").

• You notice a significant decrease in your baby's movement.

• You are having strong, regular contractions before you reach 37 weeks, as this could be preterm labor.

For a full-term pregnancy, it's generally time to go to the hospital when:

• Your contractions are following the 5-1-1 rule (or whatever specific guidance your provider gave you).

• The contractions are so strong that you can no longer talk or walk through them.

• Your water has broken.

Collection Suggestion: Once you know it's time, you'll be glad you packed your go-bag. Ensure you have a comfortable Going-Home Outfit and essentials from our Postpartum Care collection ready for your stay.

A Final Word of Encouragement for You

The end of pregnancy is a powerful and emotional time. Trust your body and your intuition. Your body was designed for this, and it knows exactly what to do. The signs of labor are signals that you are about to meet the little person you’ve been waiting for.

Stay calm, stay in communication with your provider, and lean on your support person. Whether labor starts with a whisper or a roar, know that you are strong, you are capable, and you are on the verge of the most incredible moment of your life. You’ve got this, mama.