As your due date approaches, it’s totally normal to wonder whether you’re experiencing true labor or just another false alarm. Many early symptoms can feel similar, making it difficult to know when it’s go-time.
Understanding the signs of labor (and knowing what to do when they start) can help you feel more prepared and confident as your body moves toward childbirth. Below, we’re looking at early signs, true labor versus Braxton Hicks, and when to contact your provider.
Signs Your Body Is Preparing for Labor
In the days or weeks leading up to labor, your body may begin to show subtle changes, often called pre-labor signs. While they don’t necessarily mean labor has started, they can indicate that your body is getting ready.
Common early signs include:
- Increased pelvic pressure
- Lower back discomfort
- Loss of the mucus plug
- Light spotting (sometimes called “bloody show”)
- A noticeable increase in vaginal discharge
Some women also experience a burst of energy or a strong urge to prepare their home for the baby’s imminent arrival, often referred to as the “nesting instinct.”
True Labor vs. False Labor
One of the most common questions for expectant mothers is how to tell the difference between true labor contractions and false labor (Braxton Hicks).
False Labor (Braxton Hicks)
- Irregular and unpredictable
- Do not get closer together
- Often stop with rest, hydration, or a change in position
- Usually feel like tightening rather than severe pain
True Labor
True labor contractions are your body’s way of gradually opening the cervix in preparation for delivery.
- Contractions become regular and consistent
- They get closer together over time
- They grow stronger and longer
- They continue even if you change positions or rest
Signs You Are in Active Labor
As labor progresses, symptoms become more noticeable and consistent. At this stage, it is usually time to contact your healthcare provider or head to your planned delivery location. Signs that labor is truly underway include:
- Contractions occurring every 5 minutes or less
- Contractions lasting about 45–60 seconds
- Increasing intensity that makes it difficult to talk through them
- Pain that may begin in the lower back and move to the front of the abdomen
What to Do When Labor Starts
If you think labor may be beginning, try to stay calm and take a moment to assess what you are feeling.
You can start by:
- Timing your contractions to see if they are becoming regular
- Resting or changing position to see if symptoms continue or fade
- Staying hydrated and nourished
- Contacting your provider if you are unsure what you are experiencing
If contractions become consistent and stronger, reach out to your provider and share what’s happening. They can let you know whether you should head to the hospital.
What About Your Water Breaking?
For some women, labor begins when the amniotic sac ruptures, often described as the “water breaking.” This may feel like a sudden gush or a steady trickle of fluid.
However, it’s important to note that not all labors start this way. Many women experience contractions first. If your water breaks, contact your provider, especially if:
- The fluid is not clear
- You are not yet having contractions
- You are unsure how far along you are in labor
Not Sure What’s Happening? When to Call Your Provider
It is always okay to reach out if you’re uncertain! Your provider can help guide you on what to do next and when to head in. Contact your provider if:
- Contractions are regular and increasing in intensity
- Your water has broken
- You notice heavy bleeding
- You experience severe or unusual pain
- You feel decreased movement from your baby
What Happens in Early Labor?
Labor typically begins with the early (latent) phase, where contractions are mild and spaced farther apart. During this time, the cervix begins to soften and gradually open.
This phase can last several hours or longer, especially for first-time mothers. Many women are encouraged to stay home during early labor to rest and conserve energy for the active phase. As contractions become stronger and closer together, labor progresses more quickly.
Trusting and Listening to Your Body
Labor can look different for everyone, even for the same woman who has had multiple pregnancies! Sometimes there’s a gradual buildup, and other times there’s a more sudden shift.
If something feels different or you believe labor may be starting, trust your instincts. With the right information and support, you can approach labor with greater confidence and a clearer sense of what to expect next. Contact our care team today at Capital Women’s Care at (301) 681-3400 to schedule a consultation.