As an expecting mother, the anticipation of meeting your little one can be both exciting and overwhelming. Understanding the early signs and symptoms of labour is crucial for a smooth and stress-free delivery. In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 indicators that your baby is on the way, helping you feel more prepared and confident as you approach this life-changing event.
1. Lightening (Dropping)
One of the first signs that labour is approaching is lightening or “dropping.” This occurs when your baby moves lower into your pelvis, creating more space in your upper abdomen. You might notice that it’s easier to breathe, but you may also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen and pelvis. Lightening usually happens a few weeks before labour begins, especially for first-time moms.
2. Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as “false labour,” are irregular and usually painless contractions that prepare your uterus for the real deal. As you get closer to your due date, these contractions may become more frequent and intense. However, unlike true labour contractions, Braxton Hicks does not follow a regular pattern and does not progressively get stronger or closer together.
3. Loss of the Mucus Plug
The mucus plug is a thick, jelly-like substance that seals the cervix during pregnancy to protect your baby from infections. As your cervix begins to dilate in preparation for labour, the mucus plug may dislodge and pass out of the vagina. This can happen all at once or gradually over several days. The mucus plug may be clear, pink, or slightly bloody.
4. Bloody Show
The bloody show is a sign that your cervix is beginning to efface (thin out) and dilate (open up). It is characterised by a pink or bloody discharge, which results from the tiny blood vessels in the cervix breaking as it prepares for labour. While the bloody show can indicate that labour is imminent, it can also occur several days before contractions begin.
5. Water Breaking
The rupture of the amniotic sac, commonly known as “water breaking,” is a clear sign that labour is on the horizon. This can happen as a sudden gush of fluid or a slow trickle. It’s important to note the colour and odour of the fluid and to contact your gynaecologist immediately. Once your water breaks, labour is likely to start soon if it hasn’t already.
6. Regular Contractions
True labour contractions are consistent, increasing in intensity and frequency over time. They typically start in the lower back and radiate to the abdomen. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, true labour contractions don’t subside with movement or rest. Timing the contraction can help in identifying true contraction from false. The frequency of contractions can be recorded with Elle TENS and provides valuable information to your doctor about how close you are to active labour. Additionally, Elle TENS can help manage the contraction pain, providing a more comfortable experience.
7. Back Pain
Persistent lower back pain can be a sign of labour, especially if contractions accompany it. This pain is often due to the baby’s head pressing against the lower spine and is commonly referred to as “back labour.” If you experience continuous back pain, it’s essential to monitor it along with other signs of labour.
8. Diarrhoea or Nausea
As your body prepares for labour, hormonal changes can affect your digestive system, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea or nausea. This is your body’s way of emptying the bowels to make more room for the baby to pass through the birth canal. While these symptoms can be uncomfortable, they are a normal part of the pre-labour process.
9. Increased Urination
The baby’s head dropping into the pelvis can put additional pressure on your bladder, leading to more frequent trips to the bathroom. If you notice a sudden increase in the need to urinate, it could be a sign that labour is near.
10. Nesting Instinct
Many expecting mothers experience a burst of energy and an overwhelming urge to clean, organise, and prepare their home for the baby’s arrival. This phenomenon, known as the nesting instinct, is believed to be triggered by hormonal changes as labour approaches. While it’s a good idea to take advantage of this energy, be sure to balance it with rest to conserve energy for labour.
Experience a Pain-Free Delivery with Elle TENS
Elle TENS is the world’s first award-winning maternity TENS unit, designed with Opti-Max technology to provide a pain-free delivery experience. By delivering gentle electrical impulses, Elle TENS helps manage labour pain naturally and effectively. Thousands of mothers have benefited from this innovative device, experiencing a more comfortable and empowering childbirth.
For more information about Elle TENS and how it can enhance your delivery experience, visit our website and join the community of mothers who have made their labour journey smoother and more comfortable with Elle TENS.
By understanding these early signs and symptoms of labour, you can feel more prepared and confident as you approach your delivery. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so trust your instincts and consult your healthcare provider with any concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How can I differentiate between Braxton Hicks and true labour contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, usually painless, and do not increase in intensity or frequency. In contrast, true labour contractions are consistent, intensify over time, and do not subside with movement or rest. Timing your contractions can help distinguish between the two. Using the Elle TENS unit to record the frequency of your contractions provides valuable information to your doctor about how close you are to active labour, ensuring you receive timely care.
2. What should I do if my water breaks?
If your water breaks, note the colour and odour of the fluid and contact your gynaecologist immediately. Labour will likely start soon if it hasn’t already, and your doctor will guide you on the next steps.
3. When should I go to the hospital?
It’s time to head to the hospital when your contractions are regular, last about 60 seconds, and are 5 minutes apart for at least an hour. If you experience heavy bleeding, your water breaks, or you have severe pain, go to the hospital immediately.
