Signs That Labor Is Starting
Is that just another Braxton Hicks contraction—or is labor finally starting? As your due date nears, it’s easy to second-guess every twinge, cramp, or sudden backache. It’s hard to tell normal pregnancy aches from true labor signs—but knowing the difference can ease your mind and help you prep.
Your body might start whispering hints that labor’s on the horizon long before your water breaks. From stronger, more regular contractions to a telltale “lightening” sensation as the baby drops, these signs can signal that showtime is near. Let’s explore the symptoms to watch for—and when it’s time to call your doctor.
Feeling Drained Before Birth
As labor approaches, many women feel more exhausted than usual. This goes beyond typical pregnancy fatigue—it often feels more intense and harder to shake, especially during the early (latent) phase of labor.
The body is working hard to prepare for birth, using up energy even while you rest. This can leave you feeling drained, even after a full night’s sleep.
Feeling More Unsteady
In the days or weeks before labor begins, pregnant women start to feel more clumsy or off-balance. As the baby grows and shifts lower, your center of gravity changes. At the same time, a hormone called relaxin loosens your joints and ligaments to prepare for delivery.
These physical changes can make you more likely to trip, bump into things, or drop objects. Feeling unusually unsteady—especially as your due date nears—can be a subtle sign that labor is getting closer.
Noticing More Braxton Hicks Tightenings
As pregnancy continues, some may notice an increase in the frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions. These irregular tightenings of the uterus can start as early as 24 weeks. Each tightening makes the stomach feel firm before relaxing again. They might cause discomfort but are generally not painful.
Feeling Sick or Noticing Loose Bowel Movements
As labor approaches, some people feel nauseous or notice looser bowel movements. This happens because hormones begin to relax the body’s muscles—including those in the stomach and intestines—causing more frequent bathroom trips or mild stomach upset.
Not everyone will experience these symptoms, but they are common signs that the body is preparing for birth. They often appear before other labor signals and can be an early clue that things are starting to change.
Signs Your Baby Has Moved Down (Lightening)
Lightening is the term for when the baby drops lower into the pelvis, a sign that labor may be approaching. This shift often brings relief from pressure on the rib cage, making it easier to breathe.
As the baby settles lower, your belly may look different. Some people notice the change in shape, and friends or family might even comment that you “look lower” or “ready to go.”
When the Mucus Plug Comes Out
The mucus plug forms near the cervix and acts as a protective barrier, helping to keep bacteria away from the baby. As the cervix begins to soften and open in the lead-up to labor, this plug may come out.
This thick discharge can be clear, pink, or have streaks of blood, also called a “bloody show.” Some people do not notice when the mucus plug passes, while others see it days or hours before labor begins. A small amount of bloody or mucus-like discharge is normal, but heavy bleeding should be checked by a healthcare provider.
Cervical Changes During Dilation
In the final weeks of pregnancy, doctors or midwives may check if the cervix has started to open, or dilate. It’s common for the cervix to begin dilating slowly, sometimes reaching two centimeters well before strong contractions begin.
Dilation can stay the same for days or even weeks without active labor starting. Labor typically becomes active once the cervix reaches about four centimeters, often followed by more regular and stronger contractions.
Recognizing Repeated Back Discomfort
Along with changes in the cervix, some people begin to feel new types of back pain that signal labor may be getting closer. This discomfort often builds in waves, rather than staying constant throughout the day.
It may feel like cramping or pressure in the lower back, especially if the baby is pressing on the spine. Unlike regular backaches, this pain tends to follow a noticeable pattern and can be a sign that labor is starting.
Feeling Stronger and More Regular Contractions
In true labor, contractions come at steady intervals and gradually grow stronger. Unlike Braxton Hicks, which are mild and irregular, these contractions follow a clear pattern and increase in intensity over time. As labor moves forward, it may become harder to talk or move during a contraction, and focusing on breathing often helps manage the discomfort.
When the Amniotic Sac Releases Fluid
When a person’s water breaks, it means the amniotic sac around the baby has released fluid. This may come out as a slow trickle or a sudden gush that doesn’t stop easily. The fluid is usually clear or pale yellow.
Water breaking is often one of the final signs that labor is starting. When it happens, be sure to contact your doctor or midwife to know what steps to take next.
As labor approaches, your body gives you helpful signals—some subtle, others unmistakable. Paying attention to these signs can ease worry and help you feel more prepared. If you’re ever unsure, trust your instincts and reach out to your doctor or midwife. It’s always okay to ask questions and get support.
