Signs of labour

No two labours are exactly the same. Everyone's labour is different in some way but the following are the usual signs that let you know the process is beginning.

Many people think that the first sign of labour is your waters breaking. This can be the case but you’re only in labour if the waters are accompanied by contractions, which are dilating your cervix.

Other early signs include:
• Persistent lower back or abdominal pain, often accompanied by a crampy, premenstrual feeling.
• A bloody show (a brownish or blood-tinged mucus discharge). If you pass the mucus plug that blocks the cervix, labour could be imminent or it could be several days away. It is though a sign that things are starting to move.
• Lightening (when the baby's head begins to drop into position in your pelvis). You may notice that you can breathe more deeply and eat more, but you'll also need to pee more frequently.
• Your vaginal discharge may become heavier and more mucousy.

Once you think that labour has actually started, keep calm and relaxed. This will both help your labour to progress and help you cope with the contractions. Do whatever will help you to stay relaxed, whether it’s watching a film, relaxing, or asking a friend over. You could do a little walking or take a warm bath to ease any pains.

This stage of early labour is a good time to try out different positions and breathing techniques to see if they help you cope with the contractions. If you’re planning to use a TENS machine, then early labour is the time to use it.

As your labour continues you’ll have more frequent and more intense contractions. Prior to this time you and your midwife will have discussed what to do when you think you're in labour. (Remember that there is always the chance that you may not be in labour yet. Some women are sensitive to the pain of contractions before the cervix has actually started to dilate. A midwife can confirm whether cervical changes have started by examining you.)

If you're not sure whether or not the time has actually come, don't be embarrassed to call your midwife. Midwives are used to getting calls from women, who are uncertain if they're in labour and who need guidance.

If your midwife does confirm that you are in labour, then she will advise you on ways to cope at home until labour becomes stronger. A warm bath or massage may help to relieve the pain.