Early Signs of Labor: Know the Signs Before Delivery
Introduction
When the pregnancy reaches its last stage, every mother has this question in her mind that when will the labor start and what are its early symptoms? Before delivery, some changes occur in the body, which indicate that the time of the baby’s birth is approaching.
In this article, we will know the early symptoms of labor, their causes and when it is necessary to contact the doctor.
Early Signs of Labor
1. Baby Dropping
. In the last weeks of pregnancy, the baby starts coming down towards the pelvis.
. This makes it easier to breathe, but the pressure in the pelvic area can increase.
. In women who are becoming mothers for the first time, this can happen 2-4 weeks before delivery.
2. Loss of Mucus Plug
. The mucus plug that keeps the cervix closed may come out before delivery.
. It can be thick white, pink or light brown in colour.
. Many women do not feel it immediately, but it is an important sign that delivery is near.
3. Braxton Hicks Contractions
. It is also called false labour pain.
. These are mild contractions which are irregular and subside on their own after some time.
. In real labour, the contractions become regular and intense.
4. Back Pain & Cramps
. Some women feel pain in the lower back and abdomen before delivery.
. This pain usually increases continuously and does not get better even after resting.
5. Cervix Dilation
. During delivery, the cervix gradually starts to dilate and become thin.
. The doctor or midwife can tell how much the cervix is open through an internal checkup.
6. Diarrhea & Loose Stools
. The body undergoes hormonal changes before delivery, which can cause loose bowels.
. Some women may experience diarrhea or nausea.
7. Weight loss or change in appetite
. Some women may experience slight weight loss as the body begins to release excess water.
. Loss of appetite or increased appetite can also be common signs.
8. Nesting Instinct
. Some women feel very tired, while some suddenly feel energized and start cleaning or arranging things around the house.
. This is called the nesting instinct.
9. Water breaking
. This is the most prominent sign that delivery is now very close.
. The color of the water can be transparent, light yellow or slightly pink.
. If labor doesn’t begin within 24 hours after the water breaks, a doctor should be contacted.
True vs False Labour
| False Labour | True Labour |
|---|---|
| Contractions are irregular. | Contractions are regular and progressively intensify. |
| Contractions ease with rest or drinking water. | Contractions do not stop even with rest. |
| Pain is felt only in the front of the abdomen. | Pain starts in the back and moves toward the abdomen. |
When to contact a doctor?
If you experience the following symptoms, go to the hospital immediately:
✅ The water bag bursts.
✅ Strong and regular contractions are felt.
✅ There is heavy bleeding.
✅ The baby’s movement decreases.
✅ There is a severe headache, blurred vision or swelling.
