Welcoming a little angel is an immense joy, which is why parents always want to prepare everything meticulously. In the final months of pregnancy, expectant mothers often worry because they are unsure about the signs of labor. Don’t be too stressed; maintain a relaxed mindset and closely monitor the following signs of labor to be ready to welcome your baby safely.
Signs of Labor Before Delivery Day
According to traditional wisdom and modern medicine, pregnancy typically lasts 9 months and 10 days, marking the estimated due date. However, in reality, the baby could arrive at any time. Therefore, early recognition of labor signs, delivery signs, or impending birth signs is extremely important for expectant mothers to mentally prepare for childbirth, ready to enter labor and meet their little angel.
Lightening (Baby Dropping)
Towards the end of pregnancy, as the fetus gradually moves down into the pelvis in preparation for labor, expectant mothers may notice their belly dropping lower – a phenomenon also known as lightening or the baby ‘dropping’. This is a common sign of impending birth, often appearing a few weeks or even hours before delivery, and is particularly noticeable in first-time mothers.
However, for mothers giving birth for the second time or more, this symptom may sometimes be less pronounced, only being felt when true labor actually begins. At this point, the fetus is in a ready position, with the baby’s head turned downwards and in the lowest position, prepared for the journey into the world.
Due to the baby’s head pressing on the bladder, expectant mothers will urinate more frequently, similar to the first trimester of pregnancy. Simultaneously, the heavy, dragging sensation in the lower abdomen makes movement difficult, and the body feels heavier. On the positive side, however, mothers will find it easier to breathe, as the baby is no longer encroaching on lung space, reducing pressure on the chest and creating a feeling of relief.
True Labor Contractions
True labor contractions are the clearest sign of impending birth that pregnant women often experience in the final months of pregnancy. Unlike Braxton Hicks ‘false’ labor contractions – which appear sporadically with irregular frequency, are sparse, cause no pain, and do not cause cervical effacement or dilation – true labor contractions are more distinct and continuous.
When uterine contractions become true labor, expectant mothers will feel their abdomen harden, experience more pain that doesn’t subside with changes in position. The intensity gradually increases, and the frequency increases, with contractions lasting about 30–60 seconds, occurring every 5–10 minutes, then gradually shortening to every 2–3 minutes. This consistent and regular frequency is the characteristic of true labor contractions that helps easily distinguish them from physiological contractions.
Water Breaking
Water breaking is a common sign of impending labor, often occurring within two days, indicating that the expectant mother has entered the labor stage and is about to give birth. Throughout pregnancy, the fetus is enclosed in a protective fluid-filled sac called the amniotic sac. When the amniotic sac ruptures, it means the body is ready for childbirth.
The manifestation of water breaking can vary among mothers. Some women clearly feel a rapid, strong, sudden gush of fluid from the vagina, without pain. Others may only notice a slow, small trickle of fluid running down their legs. At this point, it is crucial to differentiate between urine and amniotic fluid. If there’s any suspicion of water breaking, the mother should see a doctor or go to a medical facility with an obstetrics department for examination.
Depending on the pregnancy status, the amount of amniotic fluid can be abundant or scant, flowing in a stream or dripping, usually clear or pale yellow. If water breaking is suspected, the expectant mother should note the time it occurred, carefully observe the amount and color of the fluid, and go to the hospital as soon as possible.
It is particularly important to note that premature rupture of membranes (PROM) before 37 weeks of pregnancy can affect the fetus, creating an entry point for germs and bacteria, leading to a high risk of infection. If the pregnancy is 37 weeks or more, the mother will typically give birth within 12–24 hours after her water breaks. However, if the mother cannot deliver vaginally, the doctor may recommend a C-section to ensure the safety of the fetus. Remember, the longer the water has been broken, the higher the risk of infection for the baby.
Cervical Dilation and Effacement in the Final Weeks of Pregnancy
In the final weeks of pregnancy, the lower segment of the uterus will begin to dilate and thin out, preparing for childbirth and creating a clear path for the baby to be born. This is an important physiological sign before labor, indicating the mother’s body is ready.
During routine prenatal check-ups, the doctor will assess and monitor cervical effacement and dilation through a vaginal examination. However, the rate of cervical effacement and dilation varies among expectant mothers, depending on their individual physiology and pregnancy status.
Typically, the cervix needs to dilate to 10 cm to reach full dilation, creating favorable conditions for a safe delivery. The process of cervical dilation is divided into two distinct stages:
First stage: The cervix dilates to 3 cm, progressing quite slowly, usually lasting about 6–8 hours, with an average dilation of 1 cm every 2 hours.
Second stage: The cervix continues to dilate from 3–10 cm; this process is faster, taking about 7 hours, with an average dilation of 1 cm or more per hour.
Loss of Cervical Mucus Plug
The cervical mucus plug is a thick mass of mucus located at the opening of the cervix, acting as a barrier to prevent harmful agents such as bacteria, viruses, and other sources of infection from entering the uterus. Between 37–40 weeks of pregnancy, expectant mothers may notice pinkish or slightly reddish vaginal discharge. This is a sign of losing the mucus plug, signaling that the body is ‘clearing the way’ for the baby to be born.
The mucus discharge is usually dark or slightly pink, sometimes containing a small amount of blood – a sign that the due date is near, indicating the baby could arrive in the next few days. However, the timing of losing the mucus plug and the onset of true labor is not fixed. Some mothers may go into labor just a few hours or days later, while in other cases, it might take 1–2 weeks for true labor to begin.
If the mucus discharge contains a significant amount of blood, similar to a menstrual period, this could be a dangerous sign. Expectant mothers should go to the hospital immediately for examination and timely treatment to avoid unwanted complications.
The ‘Nesting’ Instinct Awakens
In the final week of pregnancy, many expectant mothers begin to feel tired, similar to the first trimester. The growing belly puts pressure on the bladder, causing frequent nighttime urination, which in turn leads to difficulty sleeping soundly each night. To ensure good health for the important stage ahead, mothers should try to nap whenever they feel sleepy to conserve energy.
However, contrary to fatigue, many expectant mothers become more active and energetic, beginning to enjoy cleaning the house and meticulously organizing everything. This is when the nesting instinct – a natural manifestation of maternal instinct – awakens, urging mothers to prepare everything best for the baby’s arrival. This phenomenon is also often considered a sign of impending labor, indicating that the mother’s body and mind are fully ready to welcome their beloved child.
Cramps, Back Pain
As they enter the pre-labor phase, expectant mothers frequently experience increasingly frequent cramps and back pain. This is accompanied by a more pronounced aching sensation in the lower back and groin, especially in first-time mothers, where these signs of impending birth are more easily recognized. The cause is the stretching and relaxation of muscles and joints in the pelvic area and uterus, preparing optimally for the fetus’s arrival.
Loosening Joints
Throughout pregnancy, the hormone relaxin is secreted to soften and loosen ligaments, thereby making joints more flexible. This allows the pelvic framework to widen, creating favorable conditions for childbirth. This is a natural bodily response, so mothers do not need to worry too much; simply listen to their body and mentally prepare for the journey of welcoming their beloved baby.
What Should Expectant Mothers Do When They Show Signs of Labor?
Typically, the due date is only an estimate and may not coincide with the actual delivery time. Therefore, upon noticing signs of labor, expectant mothers should remain calm, avoid worrying, and promptly take the following steps:
Attend prenatal appointments as scheduled: Adhering to regular check-ups will help your doctor accurately monitor your pregnancy status and determine if it’s time for hospital admission. You will then receive specific instructions on items to bring, documents required, and signs of impending labor that necessitate immediate hospitalization.
Familiarize yourself with labor pain: Labor contractions cause pain, but this is a completely normal and positive reaction. With each contraction, your baby’s birth moment draws closer.
Control your breathing and relax your body: Breathe slowly and gently, maintaining a stable mindset. Proper breathing techniques help reduce anxiety and pain, supporting a smoother delivery.
When Should Expectant Mothers Call a Doctor?
As they enter the ‘final stretch’ of pregnancy, expectant mothers need to pay special attention to their body’s changes. Doctors will advise on how to time contractions to indicate labor, including the duration between contractions and the length of each contraction. Initially, mild contractions usually occur every 20–30 minutes with less pain. However, when contractions become more frequent, occurring every 15 minutes and increasing in pain, expectant mothers should go to the hospital immediately for timely labor monitoring.
Besides contractions, if any of the following signs of impending labor appear, expectant mothers should quickly call a doctor or go to a medical facility:
Signs of preterm labor: Contractions appearing before 37 weeks, vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, abdominal pain, pelvic pain, or back pain.
Signs of ruptured membranes or amniotic fluid leakage: If the amniotic fluid is yellow-brown or green, this could be a sign of meconium – the baby’s first stool. This condition is dangerous if the baby inhales or swallows it during birth.
Vaginal bleeding with fresh blood, not brown or pale pink, accompanied by continuous abdominal pain or fever.
The baby is less active than usual; this is a warning sign that requires early examination.
Expectant mothers experience dizziness, headaches, body swelling, or severe edema – which could be symptoms of pre-eclampsia or gestational hypertension.
In any situation, if an expectant mother feels anxious even without clear signs, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. Timely assessment of the pregnancy status not only reduces anxiety but also helps ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Some Important Notes
Is Labor Pain Similar to Menstrual Cramps or Stomach Ache from Diarrhea?
In reality, labor pain can be confused with menstrual cramps or a stomach ache from diarrhea by many mothers due to similar initial sensations. However, labor contractions typically occur with higher frequency, greater intensity, and are accompanied by discomfort in the lower abdomen, back, and hips. When the baby is in the uterus and preparing for the birth canal, significant pressure is exerted on the nerves, leading to intense and uncomfortable pain.
Few labors occur without causing pain for the expectant mother. In contrast, a stomach ache from diarrhea is usually milder and easier to identify by its location. If it’s diarrhea pain, it will be concentrated in the anus, causing distinct discomfort in that area. Conversely, labor pain will originate in the uterus, radiating to the abdomen, groin, and thighs, making the difference clear to the expectant mother.
What Does Labor Pain Feel Like? Effective Pain Relief Tips to Help Expectant Mothers Have an Easier Birth
Each expectant mother will experience labor pain differently, and it can even vary between pregnancies. However, most experience labor pain as discomfort, back pain, lower abdominal pain accompanied by pressure on the pelvis. Some mothers also feel pain in their sides, and thighs, similar to severe menstrual cramps or intestinal spasms – as the uterus dilates to prepare for the baby to pass through. These labor contractions can be prolonged and increase in intensity, causing expectant mothers to feel exhausted if timely support measures are not provided.
To effectively reduce pain and help expectant mothers have an easier birth without medication, the following simple methods can be applied:
- Gentle walking helps increase blood circulation and supports the labor process.
- Practicing proper breathing techniques helps mothers control pain and maintain a stable mindset.
- Applying warm compresses to the lower abdomen or back helps effectively reduce muscle tension and pain.
- Soaking in a warm bath or taking a warm shower to relax the entire body.
- Creating a relaxing environment by watching movies, listening to soft music, gentle massage, or talking with loved ones to distract from the pain.
These labor pain relief tips not only help reduce the sensation of labor pain but also provide mental relaxation, helping expectant mothers enter childbirth with a more comfortable and confident mindset.
Is Nausea a Sign of Impending Labor?
Upon entering the third trimester, many expectant mothers begin to feel stomach rumbling, dry heaving, or prolonged nausea. These symptoms can be signs of impending labor, especially in the final stage of pregnancy. At this time, the fetus grows rapidly, causing the uterus to press on the digestive tract, making mothers prone to feeling nauseous or vomiting. Therefore, do not overlook these signs of labor to better prepare for the ‘birthing journey’.
What to Do If Your Due Date is Near But There Are No Signs of Labor?
The due date is an estimated delivery date, but in reality, the baby can be born about 1–2 weeks before or after the due date. If the mother has reached 40–42 weeks of pregnancy and still has no signs of labor, she should attend her scheduled obstetrician-gynecologist appointment. This helps check fetal heart rate, amniotic fluid, and placenta to detect any abnormal signs and intervene promptly, minimizing dangerous complications.
From the 40th week of pregnancy, if no clear signs of labor are observed, mothers should have prenatal check-ups every 2–3 days to closely monitor the situation. In addition to regular ultrasound scans, frequent monitoring is an effective way to protect the health of both mother and baby.
Typically, signs of labor appear from the 37th week of pregnancy. Early recognition of these signs helps mothers prepare mentally and feel more comfortable, leading to a safer delivery. Additionally, mothers need to bring all necessary documents and records for a smooth hospital admission process. Don’t forget to prepare essential items and personal belongings for both parents to welcome their beloved child in the most complete way.
