11 Signs & Symptoms of Labor: What To Expect?

The countdown to meeting your baby is officially on! As you approach those thrilling final weeks, your body starts dropping hints that labor is just around the corner. From the rush of excitement to the little flutters of anticipation, knowing these signs will prepare you to embrace the unforgettable journey ahead.

At Pink Orchid, we're here to make this adventure even more special. Alongside expert pregnancy guidance, our online baby massage course is designed to help you create a loving bond with your newborn, ensuring they feel cherished from their first moments.

What Is Labor In Pregnancy?
What Is Preterm Labor?
Different Stages Of Labor
What Are The Early Signs & Symptoms Of Labor?
What Are False Labor Pain Symptoms?
What Are Braxton-Hicks Contractions?
Differences Between Braxton Hicks & Real Labor
Labor Pain Symptoms For Baby Boy Or Baby Girl: Is There A Difference?
Final Delivery Symptoms In The 9th Month Of Pregnancy
FAQs
Takeaway

What Is Labor In Pregnancy?

The process of labor is the happening of a series of events that lasts until you give birth to your baby. You will notice a lot of signs when you get close to your big day. You can also categorize these signs as early signs of labor. Although, these signs usually help predict the approximate day of the delivery.

The labor period is usually followed by -

Continuous contractions
Cervical dilation
The arrival of your child

Many moms are also subjected to false alarms but you will surely experience the signs of labor that will lead you to the path of active labor.

When you’re in labor, these contractions lead to a change in your cervix and it opens (dilates) as a passageway for your child to pass through the birth canal. These contractions will also help you give push your child out of your uterus.

What Is Preterm Labor?

Preterm labor occurs when the body begins preparing for childbirth earlier than expected, typically before the 37th week of pregnancy. A full-term pregnancy is around 40 weeks, and when labor starts too soon, it can lead to the premature birth of a baby.

Babies born prematurely may face various health challenges, as they may not have had enough time to fully develop in the womb, particularly their lungs, brain, and other vital organs.

Preterm labor involves the cervix starting to open (dilate) and thinning out (efface) ahead of schedule. This process triggers contractions, similar to those in regular labor, which can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to early delivery if not managed properly.

There are several potential causes of preterm labor, including:

Infections – Certain infections in the uterus, cervix, or urinary tract can trigger early contractions.
Multiple pregnancies – Carrying twins, triplets, or more can increase the strain on the body, leading to early labor.
Problems With The Uterus Or Cervix – Issues like an incompetent cervix, uterine abnormalities, or placental complications can also lead to preterm labor.
Maternal Health Conditions – Chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or clotting disorders can also raise the risk of early labor.
Lifestyle Factors – Smoking, drug use, or inadequate prenatal care can contribute to preterm labor.

Symptoms Of Preterm Labor

Common signs of preterm labor include:

Regular contractions: Contractions occurring more than five times in an hour, even if they are not painful.
Pelvic or lower abdominal pressure: Feeling as if the baby is pushing down.
Lower back pain: A constant, dull ache in the lower back.
Changes in vaginal discharge: This may be a sign that the body is preparing for labor, especially if the discharge becomes watery, mucus-like, or bloody.
Cramping: Persistent menstrual-like cramps.

What To Do If Preterm Labor Is Suspected

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Healthcare providers can often intervene to slow down or stop preterm labor by prescribing medications, advising bed rest, or recommending hydration and monitoring. In cases where labor cannot be stopped, doctors may administer steroids to speed up the baby’s lung development, reducing the risk of complications.

Early recognition and medical intervention are key in managing preterm labor and giving the baby the best chance for a healthy start.

Different Stages Of Labor

Labor is divided into three main stages, each with distinct phases and milestones. Understanding these stages can help you better prepare for the birthing process:

First Stage: Early Labor and Active Labor

1. Early Labor (Latent Phase)

Duration: Can last from hours to days, especially for first-time mothers.
Symptoms: Mild contractions that are irregular and may last from 30 to 45 seconds. The cervix starts to open and thin out (efface).
Progress: The cervix dilates from 0 to about 3-4 centimeters. Contractions gradually become more frequent and intense.

2. Active Labor

Duration: Usually lasts from 4 to 8 hours, but can vary.
Symptoms: Contractions become more frequent, intense, and regular, occurring every 3 to 5 minutes and lasting about 60 seconds. Pain increases as the cervix dilates.
Progress: The cervix dilates from 4 to 7 centimeters. This phase is often more intense and requires more focused breathing and pain management strategies.

3. Transition Phase

Duration: Typically lasts 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Symptoms: Contractions are very strong, occurring every 2 to 3 minutes and lasting 60 to 90 seconds. The cervix completes dilation from 7 to 10 centimeters.
Progress: This is the final part of the first stage and often the most challenging. The cervix is completely open, and the baby starts to descend into the birth canal.

Second Stage: Delivery of the Baby

Duration: Can range from a few minutes to several hours, depending on various factors including whether it’s the first birth.
Symptoms: You will feel strong, intense contractions as you push. You may also experience a natural urge to push.
Progress: The baby moves through the birth canal and is delivered. This stage ends when the baby is fully out and the umbilical cord is cut.

Third Stage: Delivery of the Placenta

Duration: Usually lasts from 5 to 30 minutes after the baby is born.
Symptoms: Gentle contractions persist to assist in expelling the placenta.
Progress: The placenta detaches from the uterine wall and is delivered through the vaginal canal. Healthcare providers ensure that the placenta is fully expelled and check for any complications.

Fourth Stage: Postpartum Recovery

Duration: The first few hours after delivery.
Symptoms: This period involves initial recovery, including monitoring for any complications, managing bleeding, and starting breastfeeding.
Progress: Your healthcare team will observe you and your baby for any immediate issues, help with the initiation of breastfeeding, and provide guidance on postpartum care.

Each stage of labor is unique, and experiences can vary widely. Being informed about these stages can help you feel more prepared and empowered during the birthing process.

What Are The Early Signs & Symptoms Of Labor?

As the countdown to the little one’s birth begins, you’ll experience these early signs of labor. Read on to find out what your last days of labor would feel like -

1. Weight Loss Before Labor

Some expecting mothers lose weight by 1 to 3 pounds before labor. That’s because of water breaking, where your body sheds off extra water weight at the end of the pregnancy. Else, it can be also because of increased urination.

You will observe that your weight gain will eventually stop during the third trimester of the pregnancy. Despite your weight loss in the last few days, your little one would be still fine and gaining weight. But no wonder, your bathroom trips will surely increase due to the extended pressure on your bladder.

2. Overwhelming Nesting Instincts

This is a very common early sign of labor. You must not directly associate it with labor or delivery but it is surely a signal that you’ll soon be welcoming your child.

The nesting instincts are usually accompanied by the urge to plan & organize things for your little one. You experience little bursts of energy and cannot resist the urge to clean, organize, plan & restock up on essentials.

3. Diarrhea

This is one of the other signs to realize that your big day is coming. Just when the muscles in your uterus are softening or relaxing to prepare your body for childbirth, the impact shifts to other muscles as well. In this case, - the rectum. It results in pre-labor diarrhea.

This can also occur because of the hormonal changes that are derived from the process. But the good news is that it’s normal & you just have to stay hydrated to deal with it.

4. Fatigue

Fatigue is a symbol that is prevalent not only in the early labor period but also during labor as well. As a result, it's very common to feel exhausted by the end of the third trimester.

Your active bladder & constant fatigue will make it difficult for you but all you need is lots of energy & positivity. You gotta hold yourself through the labor period. So, go on mama! You’ll be fine.

5. Baby Drops

Baby dropping is when your baby's head descends down into your pelvis. This generally happens around the third trimester of pregnancy and the process is referred to as the lightening. Moreover, it is one of the main signs that labor is now approaching you.

Besides, as your baby gets heavier, it automatically drops lower leading to back pain as well. For some, it may not happen until you're in labor but this normally occurs in a head-down position by your baby.

6. Loosened Joints

The hormone relaxin is released more towards the end of the pregnancy. As a result, your joints & ligaments loosen by this time to prepare you for childbirth. This also leads to diarrhea. That's only because when muscles around your rectum relax, it results in pre-labor diarrhea.

Moreover, until the last few days of pregnancy, you will observe more loosened-up & relaxed joints. This is how your pelvis will open up & make up the way for your child to come out.

What Are False Labor Pain Symptoms?

False labor, also known as Braxton Hicks contractions, occurs when you experience contractions that mimic labor but are not a sign of true labor. These contractions are a normal part of pregnancy and help prepare the uterus for labor.

Here are the key symptoms of false labor:

1. Irregular Contractions

Pattern: Contractions are usually irregular and do not follow a predictable pattern.
Frequency: They can be spaced out and may not become more frequent or intense over time.

2. Less Intense Contractions

Strength: False labor contractions are generally less intense than true labor contractions.
Duration: They are often shorter in duration and may last only a few seconds.

3. Discomfort, Not Pain

Sensation: The contractions typically feel more like a tightening or discomfort rather than sharp pain.
Location: They are usually felt in the front of the abdomen rather than in the lower back or pelvic area.

4. Contractions Ease with Changes

Activity: Symptoms may subside with changes in activity, such as walking, resting, or changing positions.
Hydration: Drinking water and relaxing can often help relieve false labor contractions.

5. No Cervical Changes

Cervical Dilation: False labor does not cause the cervix to dilate or efface. There are no significant changes in the cervix.

6. No Other Signs of Labor

Additional Symptoms: False labor typically does not involve other labor symptoms such as a rupture of membranes (water breaking) or a bloody show (bloody mucus discharge).

When to Seek Medical Advice

Persistent or Increasing Symptoms: If contractions become regular, more intense, and persistent, or if you have any concerns, it's important to contact your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether you are experiencing false labor or if it's a sign of true labor.

Understanding these symptoms can help differentiate between false labor and true labor, allowing you to manage your expectations and seek appropriate care when needed.

What Are Braxton-Hicks Contractions?

Braxton-Hicks Contractions are variable contractions that a pregnant woman goes through after the 20th week of pregnancy. They are often painless and are also identified as false labor pain or alarm. The main purpose of these contractions is to prepare you for the final day of labor. These contractions might even confuse you with real labor.

As you get closer to your delivery due date, you experience more contractions. The reason for their occurrence is the tightening of your uterine muscles. The tightening in your abdomen that arises & sets back often prepares you for giving birth to your child. These typically last for 15 to 30 seconds & can also get ahead by 2 minutes.

The sensation of false labor is usually associated with some of these signs -

Braxton-Hicks Contractions
Contractions that fade away with rest & movements
Contractions that only pass on without getting vigorous & real

A second-time mother usually experiences more Braxton-hick contractions than a first-time mommy. Besides, having no contractions at all is also not a concern, it’s completely normal. You won’t face any difficulties at the time of delivering your little one.

Differences Between Braxton Hicks & Real Labor

Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor contractions are often confused, especially for first-time mothers. Here are some key differences to help distinguish between the two:

1. Timing And Frequency

Braxton Hicks: These are irregular and usually do not follow a pattern. They may come and go throughout the day and often subside with movement or changing positions.
Real Labor: Contractions become more regular and closer together as labor progresses. They follow a predictable pattern and typically intensify over time.

2. Duration And Intensity

Braxton Hicks: Generally, these contractions are shorter in duration and less intense. They may last from 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
Real Labor: Contractions are longer, usually lasting between 45 seconds to 1 minute or more. They grow stronger and more intense over time.

3. Pain And Discomfort

Braxton Hicks: Often described as a tightening or hardening of the uterus. They are usually uncomfortable but not painful.
Real Labor: Contractions involve more intense pain, often described as cramping or a severe menstrual period. The pain usually begins in the lower back and spreads to the front.

4. Effect On The Cervix

Braxton Hicks: These contractions do not cause any significant changes to the cervix.
Real Labor: Contractions help to dilate and efface (thin out) the cervix in preparation for delivery.

5. Relief Measures

Braxton Hicks: Often alleviated by resting, changing positions, or hydrating.
Real Labor: Pain may not be relieved by changing positions or resting. It often requires pain management techniques such as breathing exercises, labor support, or medical intervention.

6. Onset of Contractions

Braxton Hicks: Can start any time during pregnancy and are more common in the later stages.
Real Labor: Typically begins after 37 weeks of pregnancy, though preterm labor can occur.

7. Additional Symptoms

Braxton Hicks: No additional symptoms; contractions are usually the only sign.
Real Labor: Accompanied by other signs such as a bloody show, water breaking, and a consistent increase in the intensity and frequency of contractions.

If you're ever uncertain about whether you're experiencing Braxton Hicks or real labor, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider for guidance and reassurance.

Labor Pain Symptoms For Baby Boy Or Baby Girl: Is There A Difference?

When it comes to labor pain, there's no scientific evidence to suggest that the symptoms vary based on whether the baby is a boy or a girl. Labor pain is influenced by factors such as the baby's position, the mother's pain threshold, and the overall progression of labor, rather than the baby's sex.

Here's a quick overview of labor pain symptoms that are common regardless of the baby's gender:

Contractions: These are the most prominent symptom, characterized by rhythmic tightening of the uterus. They become more intense and frequent as labor progresses.
Back Pain: Some women experience significant back pain, which can vary in intensity and location.
Pelvic Pressure: As the baby descends into the birth canal, it can cause a feeling of pressure in the pelvic region.
Cramping: Similar to menstrual cramps but often more intense, cramping can occur throughout labor.
Water Breaking: The rupture of the amniotic sac can lead to a gush or trickle of fluid, which signifies that labor may be imminent or already underway.
Nausea or Vomiting: Some women experience nausea or vomiting during labor due to the intensity of contractions and hormonal changes.
Changes in Vaginal Discharge: This might include a "bloody show," where there is a pink or bloody discharge as the cervix begins to dilate.
Emotional Symptoms: Feeling anxious, excited, or overwhelmed is common as labor begins.

Ultimately, the experience of labor is unique to each individual and can vary widely, but the baby's sex does not play a role in these symptoms.

Final Delivery Symptoms In The 9th Month Of Pregnancy

Here are the signs that you can look for to identify that you’re experiencing real labor this time

1. Water Breaking

Water breaking is one of the last signs of labor that pregnant women experience at this moment. It is the sudden blowout of the amniotic sac. After the other labor signs, your membrane rupture, & amniotic fluid leaks. The entire fluid doesn’t pass through in a single go - It may also flow slowly for some women. This fluid develops as a layer to protect your baby as it grows in the 9 months of your pregnancy.

However, only 15% of women experience natural water breakage at the time of birth that triggers the labor.

2. The Bloody Show - Loss of the Mucus Plug

A mucus plug is a shielding collection of mucus at the opening of the cervix in a pregnant woman. The purpose of this is to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus. When you’re very close to your labor hours, this plug may loosen & drop out. On top of that, the texture of the mucus plug is thick and usually comes out in the form of vaginal discharge. The color stays pink & it may also include some traces of blood too, which it’s completely normal. That’s why it is usually called the 'bloody show'.

This is a direct indication of the impending labor. You can also find mucus in your underwear weeks before going into labor. But you can surely expect it to be right before final labor hours more often.

3. Lower Back Pain

A feeling of restlessness, fatigue, & lower abdominal pressure will accompany you through the final stages of labor. When labor is just 24 or 48 hours away, this pain may augment and make you uncomfortable. When your joints & ligaments loosen up to naturally prepare you for the labor, your backaches.

This pain won’t fade away even if you change your position or relax. On top of that, this pain is here to stay with you until after delivery, but you’ll be fine afterward.

4. Extreme Contractions

By this time, Braxton-hick contractions ( or the false labor alarms ) may have already prepared your body for labor. However, real labor contractions are most intense & extreme in nature. They occur at regular intervals and may last for 30 to 70 seconds each. These are no less than strong menstrual cramps partnered with terrible back pain. So, if you experience such cramps every 5 to 10 minutes, you can expect to deliver your little one within 24 to 48 hours of time span.

Unlike real contractions, Braxton-hick contractions are less acute & irregular. They prepare you for the real contractions & the labor process.

5. The Cervix Dilation

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus. However, cervical dilation simply means opening (dilation) up of your cervix so that your baby passes through the birth canal. The dilation takes place of 10 cm for a vaginal delivery. Although, a 2 to 3 cm dilation indicates that you’re very close to giving birth to your little one. Besides, your doctor will often call you for weekly checkups to examine the extent of your cervix dilation.

FAQs

1. How Do You Feel 24 Hours Before Labor?

The labor signs before 24 to 48 hours of delivery can differ for every woman as there is no step-by-step set of emotions that you may feel. However, most commonly, the following are the signs that you may experience before the final labor hours -

Low back pain
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Braxton hicks contractions
Cramps
Weight loss

2. What Is Silent Labor?

Silent labor is the process of childbirth where some pregnant women get to almost the end of their labor without feeling pain. Yes, that’s right. This is a common practice and is not rare. The logical reasoning behind this is the concept of fast labor. That is women who deliver their child in a very short period of time painlessly. They might not even feel the contractions in the first stage of the labor period.

3. Can You Be In Labor Without Knowing It?

As you get closer to the final labor hours, your doctor always guides you as per your labor signs. You can rarely go into labor without knowing it. But what’s possible is that it can happen to you without the contractions or water breaking. It can start quickly for some women and slowly for others. It’s important to keep your hospital bag ready because your body will give you some signs that it’s time now. Your contractions will take you to your final destination of welcoming your child.

4. Does The Baby Move A Lot Before Labor?

Your cervix opens up at the beginning of the labor stage. As a result, you experience contractions of the muscles in your uterus at very regular intervals. This is a way for your uterus to flex the muscles and prepare you for the final hour of labor. However, when these contractions set off or relax, your baby moves. For most women, this is usually continued during the early labor stage.

5. When To Call A Doctor When Labor Is Near?

At this stage, you’ll be seeing your doctor more frequently than usual. The doctor will help you understand the meaning of the labor signs. You would be able to identify the real labor contractions. These are more vigorous contractions & generally last for 30 to 70 seconds. If you feel any such contractions, feel free to connect with your doctor. Your doctor would have probably advised you what to do when you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy.

However, you can look for these signs and call your doctor -

Bleeding
Water breaking
A very severe headache
Rapid swelling

6. What are signs of silent labor?

Signs of silent labor include mild or irregular contractions, a feeling of pressure in the lower abdomen, and minimal pain, often mistaken for mild discomfort or cramping.

7. How do you feel 2 days before labor?

Two days before labor, you might experience increased pelvic pressure, backache, or cramping, as well as the nesting instinct and a noticeable drop in energy.

8. What are the first labor symptoms?

The first labor symptoms typically include regular contractions, a bloody show, and the breaking of water.

Takeaway

The last days of pregnancy will be full of the above-mentioned labor symptoms. Although, the happiness of bringing your child into the world will power you the right energy to deal with it. Every childbirth is different, but it’s important to look out for yourself during every stage of your pregnancy - especially the last one.

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