Signs Of Labor: What To Expect And When To Call Your Provider [Updated 2025]

Labor is the process that leads to birth. Your body goes through many changes as it gets ready. Knowing the signs of labor helps you prepare and reduces worry about what’s normal. This guide will help you spot early symptoms and recognize when it’s time to call your provider. You’ll learn how to tell the difference between real labor and false alarms, so you feel more ready for the big day. Understanding the signs of labor is crucial for every expecting mother.

Being prepared for the signs of labor will help you embrace this transformative moment in your life.

What Happens Before Labor Begins

Being aware of the signs of labor can alleviate anxiety and help you feel prepared as you approach your due date. It’s essential to recognize these signs of labor early on.

Your body gives you hints before labor truly starts. These changes can be subtle or obvious, and they show up in the days or weeks before contractions take center stage. Each sign tells you labor is near, but not always exactly when it will begin.

Lightening: Baby Drops Lower

When your baby “drops,” or settles lower into your pelvis, you might feel a shift in how you carry your bump. This is called lightening. For first-time moms, it often happens a few weeks before labor starts. If you’ve given birth before, it may not happen until labor is underway.

Noticing the signs of labor is vital for your comfort and safety. Make sure you keep a list of the signs of labor handy for reference.

What do you notice? Many describe feeling less pressure near the ribs and more room to breathe, but at the same time, you might feel added weight in your lower belly. It may become harder to walk, and you could need to use the bathroom more often as baby presses on your bladder. The way you walk can even change, almost like a “waddle,” and pelvic pressure increases. Some people call this feeling “carrying low”—it’s a real sign that baby is getting ready for the journey ahead.

Looking for more details? The experts at OSF HealthCare break down lightening and other pre-labor signs.

Cervical Changes

As labor nears, the cervix—your baby’s exit route—starts to prepare. It does two main things:

Effacement: The cervix thins out. Often described as “ripening,” this can feel like pelvic pressure or nothing at all.
Dilation: The cervix opens to make way for baby.

Your provider might mention “how effaced” or “how dilated” you are during appointments. Effacement is listed in percent (0-100%), and dilation in centimeters (0-10cm). Many people won’t feel these changes, but some report twinges or a mild ache low in the pelvis. During your prenatal check-ups, your doctor or midwife may perform a cervical check to see how close you are to labor.

These changes are part of the latent phase, which is when the cervix softens, thins, and starts to open.

Increased Discharge and Mucus Plug Loss

Your body may give another obvious signal through vaginal discharge. As labor approaches, many people report an increase in clear, pink, or slightly bloody mucus. This is a normal change and is often a sign that the cervix is opening.

Sometimes you’ll notice the “mucus plug.” This thick clump of mucus blocks the entrance to the cervix during pregnancy, keeping germs out. When your cervix starts to open, the plug loosens and may come out all at once or in bits over days. Seeing a brown, pink, or blood-tinged mucus—often called the “bloody show”—means the body is getting ready.

Normal: Loss of the mucus plug or increased discharge is a good, healthy sign.
Contact your provider: If you see heavy blood (like a period), green or foul-smelling fluid, or have sudden gushes of fluid (which can signal your water breaking), get in touch with your provider.

To learn more about what to expect with mucus plug loss and the “bloody show,” check the 16 Signs of Labor from What to Expect.

For insights on how your care team tracks cervical changes, see this helpful guide to what happens before and during early labor from Mayo Clinic.

If you want details on timing, what’s normal, and when to call for help, our guide to when to go to the hospital for labor will help you feel confident as the big day approaches.

By actively recognizing the signs of labor, you can alleviate anxiety and prepare effectively.

Being informed about the signs of labor can empower you to make timely decisions. Knowing the signs of labor allows you to feel more in control.

Photo by Hannah Barata

Early Signs That Labor Is Near

Your body often whispers before it shouts. The final days or weeks of pregnancy bring their own set of cues. While every person feels these changes differently, some signals are shared by many. Noticeable shifts in how contractions feel or a sudden jolt of energy can be clear clues that your baby’s birthday is close.

Your awareness of the signs of labor will greatly benefit you as you move closer to delivery.

Braxton Hicks Contractions vs. True Labor

Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes called “practice contractions.” They tend to show up after the second trimester and feel like a tightening across the belly. Some describe them as mild cramps, while others say it feels like their abdomen is turning to stone for a minute or so.

Timing: Braxton Hicks are irregular. They come and go, often easing with rest or hydration.
Sensation: They don’t get stronger or closer. You might feel pressure, but little or no pain.
Relief: Changing positions, drinking water, or taking a break usually stops them.

With true labor contractions, things shift. These contractions become regular, increase in strength, and stick around. They aren’t relieved by movement or hydration. True labor contractions:

Grow closer together over time. There’s a steady rhythm.
Get stronger and more intense as labor continues.
Don’t go away with rest or a walk.

Think of Braxton Hicks as your body’s rehearsal, while labor contractions are the main event. If you want more detail about the difference between the two, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists provides a helpful comparison of Braxton Hicks and real labor pain.

Your understanding of the signs of labor will pave the way for informed decisions during your journey.

Changes in Energy Level: The Nesting Instinct

Some people wake up one day with a burst of energy. You might feel an urge to clean, organize, or prep your home as if a guest is coming—only this time, it’s your baby. This wave of motivation, called the nesting instinct, is often described as an unstoppable drive to get your space ready.

Urgency to prepare: You may feel a strong pull to do things you’ve put off, like washing baby clothes or packing your hospital bag.
Burst of energy: Tiredness gives way to a few surprise spurts of motivation.
Attention to details: Things that didn’t matter before—cleaning window sills or rearranging baby blankets—suddenly feel urgent.

Scientists aren’t sure exactly why the nesting instinct happens, but many believe it’s your brain preparing you for birth. While not everyone will feel this urge, it’s common enough to be recognized as a sign that labor could be close.

Curious about timing and other pre-labor behaviors? The Mayo Clinic discusses pre-labor changes and urges, including the urge to nest. For tips on practical ways to use that burst of energy, see our advice on what to pack in a hospital bag for labor and birth.

Understanding the signs of labor also allows you to communicate effectively with your medical team.

Paying attention to these signs can help you feel more prepared, recognize when things are changing, and decide when to call your provider.

Clear Signs That Labor Has Started

As labor really begins, your body often signals it with clear, unmistakable signs. This isn’t just another uncomfortable twinge or mild cramp. These are signals that labor is progressing and birth isn’t far off. Knowing the difference between early signs and active labor gives you a sense of control and helps you decide what to do next.

Regular Contractions

Contractions are the body’s way of moving your baby closer to birth. True labor contractions:

Have a predictable pattern. They start evenly spaced out, like every 10 minutes, and gradually get closer (every 5 minutes or less).
Last between 30 and 70 seconds each.
Grow stronger with time. You may need to pause and breathe through them.

The pain often begins in your lower back and wraps around to the front, feeling tight and crampy. If the contractions are irregular, weak, or fade away with movement or rest, it’s likely false labor. But if they stick to a regular schedule and get harder to ignore, it’s probably the real thing.

When should you call your healthcare provider?

For a first baby, many experts recommend calling when contractions are about 5 minutes apart, lasting at least a minute, and steady for over an hour (the “5-1-1 rule”).
If you have had a baby before, you may be told to call or go in sooner, since active labor can move faster.

Prepare yourself by learning about the signs of labor and understanding what to expect.

Never feel bad about reaching out early. Each pregnancy is different. If you’re unsure, contact your doctor or midwife. When in doubt, they’d always rather answer your call than have you wait too long. More advice on when to go to the hospital for labor can help.

Water Breaking: Rupture of Membranes

Keep in mind that the signs of labor can differ for each individual. Observing your own signs of labor will help you understand your body better.

Recognizing the signs of labor will give you confidence as you approach your delivery. Make sure to discuss the signs of labor with your healthcare provider.

Photo by Miff Ibra

Familiarize yourself with the signs of labor to help you feel more empowered and ready.

When your amniotic sac ruptures, you may feel a sudden gush or a slow trickle of warm, clear fluid. Sometimes it’s unmistakable, soaking your clothes or bedding. Other times, it’s a slow leak that feels like you’re leaking urine but can’t control it. This is your “water breaking.”

Most people do not experience pain when their water breaks.
The fluid should be clear or slightly pink.
It may have a mild, sweet scent—very different from urine.

What should you do if your water breaks?

Make note of the time, color, and smell of the fluid.
Call your provider even if you aren’t having contractions.
- If the fluid is green, brown, or smells foul, go in right away, as this could signal infection or that your baby has passed meconium.
Don’t use tampons or have sex after your water breaks.

Within hours of your water breaking, labor usually starts on its own. If it doesn’t, your doctor may want to start labor to protect you and your baby from infection. Learn more about what water breaking feels like and what to do next for a detailed breakdown.

If you have questions about what’s normal when your water breaks, the Mayo Clinic guide can be helpful.

Other Signs It’s Time to Go to the Hospital or Birth Center

Aside from contractions and water breaking, your body may send out a few other clear alerts that labor has started or is about to get stronger:

Lower back pain that won’t go away, even when you change positions or rest.
Pelvic pressure that feels heavier, sometimes like your baby is pushing downward.
Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that begins suddenly and doesn’t stop.
Bloody show—more blood-tinged mucus discharge, which means your cervix is opening fast.
Strong urge to bear down or push, especially if you’ve felt this in a past birth.

If you experience any of the following, seek care right away:

Heavy vaginal bleeding (more than spotting)
Severe pain that doesn’t stop between contractions
Vision changes, headaches, or swelling (these aren’t typical labor signs and might signal preeclampsia)
Your baby is moving less than usual

Labor is a little different for everyone, so trust your gut. If something feels off or you’re in doubt, call your midwife or doctor. The NHS offers a clear list of when to call your maternity unit or midwife.

For more tips on when those early signs mean it’s time to pack up and go, check out what to bring and how to prepare for your labor admission. The best plan is to stay calm, have your bag ready, and know what signals to watch for as your baby’s birthday gets closer.

When to Call Your Healthcare Provider

Identifying the signs of labor is crucial, and preparing for them can ease stress when the time arrives.

Knowing when to call your healthcare provider can put your mind at ease and keep you and your baby safe. Most of the time, labor moves along without urgent problems, but there are times when reaching out is the right call. Some signs mean labor is progressing well, but others need medical attention fast. Clear, direct guidelines keep you confident as you move through each stage of labor. It’s better to call than worry or wait, even if you’re unsure. Here’s what to watch for—and what to ask—when checking in with your provider.

Warning Signs to Watch For: List symptoms that require urgent medical attention aside from normal labor progression.

Some symptoms during labor are not part of a normal birth. If you spot any of these signs, you need to call your provider right away or go to the nearest hospital. Your health and your baby’s health come first.

Here are warning signs to watch for:

Heavy vaginal bleeding, like a period, not just spotting.
Severe or constant abdominal pain that feels different from contractions.
Severe headache or a headache that won’t go away, even with rest or medication.
Vision changes like blurred sight, spots, or sudden loss of vision.
Sudden swelling of your face, hands, or feet, especially if it’s much more than usual.
Shortness of breath, chest pain, or a racing heartbeat.
High fever (over 100.4°F/38°C) and chills.
Confusion, fainting, or trouble speaking clearly.
Decreased fetal movement—if your baby is moving less or stops moving.
Green or foul-smelling fluid from your vagina.

Any of these can signal a problem that needs urgent care. You’re never bothering your care team. Health groups, like the CDC, stress the need to act quickly on these signs and symptoms of urgent maternal warning signs.

If you need a quick checklist to keep on hand, find one at your provider’s office or see this Texas urgent maternal warning signs guide.

Recognizing the signs of labor empowers you to take charge of your birthing experience.

Photo by melis can

Questions to Ask About Labor Progress: Provide useful questions to help talk to providers about what’s happening during labor.

Checking in with your provider helps you understand if your labor is moving along as it should or if you need adjustments to your care. Bringing a list of questions makes these talks easier and gives you peace of mind.

Here are some smart questions to ask during labor:

How will I know if I’m in true labor or false labor?
When should I go to the hospital or birth center?
What signs mean my labor is progressing?
Are my contractions strong and regular enough?
How is my baby handling labor?
What pain relief options do I have right now?
How long does this stage of labor usually last?
Will my birth plan be followed as things change?
Do you see any concerns that I should know about now?
How will you check on my baby and me while I’m in labor?

Open questions like these help you stay in the loop with your care team and ease any fears. They also help you know what’s normal and when things might need a closer look. You can find more helpful prompts in this MedlinePlus guide on questions to ask your health care provider about labor.

Understanding the signs of labor can help you prepare your home and support system for when the big day arrives.

If you are curious about labor stages or want to prepare more, this detailed resource on signs and stages of labor with tips on when to call your provider can help.

Looking for specifics on what happens as labor moves along? We offer a complete breakdown of what to expect from early labor to baby’s arrival to answer your biggest questions.

Appreciating the signs of labor will guide you through this exciting and transformative experience.

By knowing the signs of labor, you can take proactive steps to ensure a smooth delivery.

Preparing for the Next Steps

Staying aware of the signs of labor can help ensure a positive experience as you near delivery.

Labor can feel like waiting for the sky to change before a storm. You may have watched your body give one sign after another. Now you want to know, what should you do to feel ready when the final signs appear? This section helps you get your mind and practical plans in order so you face labor with as much peace as possible.

Final Checks: Packing, Contacts, and Comforts

Once you see those early labor signs, double-check your “go bag.” Even if you packed weeks ago, a quick review gives you peace of mind. Essentials matter when contractions or surprise events demand swift action. Most parents want a bag with a few smart comforts.

Here’s a simple checklist for your final prep:

Monitoring the signs of labor can significantly enhance your overall birthing experience.

Essentials for you: ID, insurance info, phone charger, flip-flops, water bottle.
Comfort items: Your pillow, cozy blanket, snacks, lip balm, and headphones.
For baby: Newborn outfit, blanket, diapers, soft hat or cap.
Paperwork: Any birth plan notes, allergy info, or special needs.

Recognizing the signs of labor will empower you to advocate for your needs during this significant time.

Also, check your ride. Make sure the car has enough gas and the route to the hospital or birth center is clear. Share your plan with your support person. It’s good to know who will care for any pets or children at home, too.

Trust your intuition and the signs of labor to guide you through this life-changing event.

For more details on what items matter most, take a look at our full hospital bag packing guide for labor and birth.

Communication Plan: Who to Call and When

Knowing the signs of labor gives you a sense of empowerment as you approach your due date.

Have your provider’s number in your phone and posted somewhere easy to see. It helps to have your partner or another support person ready to make the call if you can’t. If you’re unsure about a new symptom or the timing of contractions, it’s always safer to check in.

By understanding the signs of labor, you will be better equipped to handle the process.

Keep a short list of key contacts handy:

Stay attuned to the signs of labor to ensure a smoother transition into motherhood.

Your healthcare provider or team
Chosen support partner (or partners)
Hospital or birth center triage number
Backup ride, in case of car issues

Leave notes for yourself about when to call, using reliable rules such as the “5-1-1” for contractions—every five minutes, lasting one minute, for one hour. If you haven’t already, read our tips on when to go to the hospital for labor to be sure you know what signs mean it’s time.

Mental Prep: Stay Calm and Trust Your Instincts

Recognizing the signs of labor will help you to remain calm and composed as the day approaches.

Being knowledgeable about the signs of labor will have lasting benefits as you embark on this journey.

Labor is unknown ground, even for parents who have done this before. Emotions can swing from excited to nervous in minutes. Expect a little chaos. Take slow, deep breaths. Focus on what’s within your control: your bag, your ride, your support, and your breath.

If worries pop up, talk them through. Sometimes writing down thoughts helps calm the mind. Ask your care team about anything you don’t understand; there are no silly questions. Pay attention to what your body is telling you, and have faith in your ability to handle changes as they come. If stress feels overwhelming, you can review healthy coping tips at Early Warning Signs of Mental Breakdown.

Plan for After Labor Starts

You won’t know exactly when active labor arrives, but you can make a loose plan. Who will care for pets, siblings, or plants? What’s your route to the hospital in the dead of night? Do you want music or silence, light snacks, or water on hand for the ride? Small steps, like filling your water bottle the night before and setting out your bag, can help smooth the rush when contractions hit.

Give your support person clear roles: “You call the provider, I’ll grab the bag.”
Place essentials by the door in advance.
Review your preferences for the early labor phase, such as movement, stretching, or a shower.

Stay flexible. Labor often ignores schedules. Your main goal is to feel as settled as you can with the steps you can control. If you’d like an overview of labor’s stages and transitions, check our guide on the stages of labor and what to expect.

Being prepared with a solid plan takes a lot of worry off your plate and frees up your mind to focus on welcoming your baby.

Conclusion

Recognizing signs of labor helps you know what’s normal and when your baby might arrive soon. Pay attention to how contractions change, if your water breaks, or if you notice pre-labor cues like extra discharge or pelvic pressure. These signs mean your body is getting ready, but each person’s labor pattern looks a bit different.

Don’t hesitate to check in with your provider for anything unclear or new so you can move forward with confidence. Staying informed and prepared will keep you ready for the next steps, no matter how things unfold.

For peace of mind on related topics, see our advice on stages of labor and what to expect at each phase or review the early warning signs you should never ignore.

Thank you for reading. If you found this helpful, share your thoughts or pass this along to others waiting for the big day.

Being aware of the signs of labor helps you communicate effectively with your healthcare team.

Finally, being able to identify the signs of labor will support your journey into parenthood with confidence.

Remember, the signs of labor are your body’s way of letting you know that it’s time to prepare for the arrival of your little one.

Pay attention to all the signs of labor, as they can vary greatly from person to person.

Staying informed about the signs of labor is key to managing your expectations and feelings as your delivery date approaches.

Understanding the signs of labor is essential for every expecting parent, so stay informed.

Recognizing the signs of labor not only prepares you but can also enhance your overall experience.

Keep in mind that recognizing the signs of labor will make your journey into parenthood even more fulfilling.