Signs of Labor During Pregnancy

Signs of labor during pregnancy are difficult to ignore. Physical changes in the body begin to prepare women for the arrival of the baby. Every woman is different, and their signs of labor during pregnancy may be different, at least in the early stages.

Mucus Plug

The mucus plug is the small bit of mucus that has kept your cervix closed throughout your pregnancy. Some women will notice when they pass the mucus plug, because it appears bloody and may often be referred to as "bloody show."

Baby Drops

You may notice that the baby has suddenly dropped into place. It makes you feel lighter in your upper abdomen and more pressure in your lower abdomen.

Bowels

As your body prepares to give birth, your bowels may become more loose, or you may feel the need to have a bowel movement when your contractions are still far apart.

Water Breaks

Having your water break is a sign that cannot go unnoticed, but some women may experience a slow leaking rather than a gush of fluid. Either way, this is a sure sign that labor is on the way.

Contractions

Contractions that begin to happen at regular intervals means that labor is imminent. However, the contractions must get closer and closer together for labor to progress.

Nesting

Nesting may not prove that labor is coming soon, but it does often occur as labor becomes closer. It is the instinct to have everything prepared for the baby to arrive into your home.

References

• Baby Center
• Mayo Clinic