Options
Rename Topic
Delete Topic
Are you sure you want to delete this topic?
Shared by Zenith Health
What made this response need improvement?
First signs of labor & how to be sure it's actually true labor starting?
Penny found 20 sources
with relevant information
2 professionally-backed sources
9 articles from healthcare institutions
What are the first signs that labor is starting?
The first signs of labor can be different for everyone, but there are some common symptoms that often signal labor is approaching or beginning:
- Regular contractions that get stronger, longer, and closer together over time
- Lower back pain or cramping that may radiate to the front
- Loss of the mucus plug (“bloody show”)—a thick, sometimes blood-tinged discharge
- Rupture of membranes (“water breaking”)—a gush or steady trickle of fluid from the vagina
- Increased vaginal discharge or a change in its consistency
- A sensation that the baby has “dropped” lower into the pelvis (lightening)
- Loose stools or diarrhea, and sometimes nausea
-
A sudden burst of energy or, conversely, fatigue
Early signs & symptoms of labor: What to watch for | HealthPartners BlogLightening often takes place 2-4 weeks before labor for first-time parents. If you have given birth before, you may not experience lightening until much closer to labor. Your baby’s new position may put added pressure on your pelvis and bladder. So while you may already be used to frequent urination as a pregnancy symptom, even more frequent urination is a potential sign ...Read full articleSource: healthpartners.comHow to Tell When Labor Begins | ACOGYou should go to the hospital if you have any of these signs: Your water has broken and you are not having contractions. You are bleeding heavily from the vagina. You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions.Signs that labour has begun - NHSFind out how to recognise the signs of labour, which can include contractions, a show, waters breaking, backache and needing the toilet.Read full articleSource: nhs.uk15 signs your body is getting ready for labor - The Mother Baby CenterDiscover 15 signs labor is near, from cramps to sudden energy bursts. Learn about labor symptoms to prepare for your baby's arrival.10 Signs of Labor StartingSigns of labor may include contractions, cramps, pelvic pressure, changes in vaginal discharge and loss of mucus plug — but everyone’s situation is unique.Read full articleSource: Cleveland Clinic
How can you tell if it’s true labor and not false labor?
True labor vs. false labor (Braxton Hicks or prodromal labor)
-
True labor contractions:
- Become regular, stronger, and closer together (usually less than 5 minutes apart)
- Do not go away with rest, hydration, or a change in position
- Usually start in the back and move to the front of the abdomen
- Get more intense over time and last longer (typically 30–70 seconds each)
-
Lead to cervical changes (dilation and effacement)
How to Tell When Labor Begins | ACOGYou should go to the hospital if you have any of these signs: Your water has broken and you are not having contractions. You are bleeding heavily from the vagina. You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions.Prodromal Labor (False Labor): Causes, Symptoms & DurationThey may ask for you to time your contractions or describe your pain. Other times they will ask you to come in so they can check your cervix. If there is no sign of dilation, you’re probably feeling false labor.Read full articleSource: Cleveland ClinicSigns of Labor | Northwestern MedicineWhen you go into labor, you’ll start to feel strong contractions, which may be described as cramping that begins in your back and moves to the front of your abdomen.False vs True Labor: How to Tell the DifferenceA bloody show or a “mucus plug” could mean a cervical change, which means labor is close · Nausea and/or vomiting might happen due to the contractions becoming very intense and the change in hormones in the bod · Sometimes vaginal tears can indicate the discomfort is more intense and things are progressing · One definite sign: The only way to know for sure if you’re in true labor is to be evaluated by a professional...Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter HealthProdromal Labor: May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart · Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer · May last a day or more, making rest difficult · Cervix may thin but doesn’t ...Read full articleSource: Sutter HealthSigns of Labor What to Expect as Your Due Date ApproachesPain Location: Braxton Hicks contractions are typically felt more in the front of the abdomen and may not be as intense as true labor contractions. ... Water Breaking: If your water breaks (rupture of the amniotic sac), contact your doctor or midwife, even if you’re not experiencing contractions yet. Vaginal Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding, seek medical attention immediately. Decreased Fetal Movement: If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movement, let your healthcare provider know.Read full articleSource: Cary OBGYN
-
False labor contractions (Braxton Hicks or prodromal labor):
- Are irregular and do not get closer together
- Often stop with rest, hydration, or changing position
- Usually felt only in the front of the abdomen
- Do not increase in intensity or duration
-
Do not cause cervical changes
Prodromal Labor (False Labor): Causes, Symptoms & DurationThey may ask for you to time your contractions or describe your pain. Other times they will ask you to come in so they can check your cervix. If there is no sign of dilation, you’re probably feeling false labor.Read full articleSource: Cleveland ClinicFalse vs True Labor: How to Tell the DifferenceA bloody show or a “mucus plug” could mean a cervical change, which means labor is close · Nausea and/or vomiting might happen due to the contractions becoming very intense and the change in hormones in the bod · Sometimes vaginal tears can indicate the discomfort is more intense and things are progressing · One definite sign: The only way to know for sure if you’re in true labor is to be evaluated by a professional...Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter HealthProdromal Labor: May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart · Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer · May last a day or more, making rest difficult · Cervix may thin but doesn’t ...Read full articleSource: Sutter HealthHow to Tell If It’s False Labor or the Real Thing - Valley Perinatal ServicesFalse labor refers to irregular, often painless contractions that occur before the onset of true labor. These contractions are a natural part of the pregnancy process and help the uterus practice for labor and delivery.Read full articleSource: valleyperinatal.com
False vs True Labor: How to Tell the Difference
A bloody show or a “mucus plug” could mean a cervical change, which means labor is close · Nausea and/or vomiting might happen due to the contractions becoming very intense and the change in hormones in the bod · Sometimes vaginal tears can indicate the discomfort is more intense and things are progressing · One definite sign: The only way to know for sure if you’re in true labor is to be evaluated by a professional...
Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter Health
Prodromal Labor: May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart · Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer · May last a day or more, making rest difficult · Cervix may thin but doesn’t ...
Read full article
Source:
Sutter Health
Is Your Labor for Real? Here’s How to Know | AdventHealth
During real labor the intensity of the contractions will increase, while with false labor the intensity usually does not change. When contractions are five minutes apart or less for over an hour, moms should come to the hospital.
Read full article
Source:
AdventHealth
When should you contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital?
You should contact your OB/GYN or midwife if:
- Your water breaks (especially if the fluid is green, brown, or foul-smelling)
- You have regular contractions every 4–5 minutes, lasting 60 seconds each, for at least an hour (for first-time pregnancies)
- You have heavy vaginal bleeding
- You notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements
- You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions
-
You are unsure if what you’re experiencing is true labor
How to Tell When Labor Begins | ACOGYou should go to the hospital if you have any of these signs: Your water has broken and you are not having contractions. You are bleeding heavily from the vagina. You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions.Signs of Labor | Northwestern MedicineWhen you go into labor, you’ll start to feel strong contractions, which may be described as cramping that begins in your back and moves to the front of your abdomen.Signs of Labor What to Expect as Your Due Date ApproachesPain Location: Braxton Hicks contractions are typically felt more in the front of the abdomen and may not be as intense as true labor contractions. ... Water Breaking: If your water breaks (rupture of the amniotic sac), contact your doctor or midwife, even if you’re not experiencing contractions yet. Vaginal Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding, seek medical attention immediately. Decreased Fetal Movement: If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movement, let your healthcare provider know.Read full articleSource: Cary OBGYN
Your provider can help you decide if it’s time to come in, and it’s always okay to call if you’re uncertain or need reassurance.
What else should you know as a first-time parent?
-
It’s common to have false alarms, especially with your first pregnancy. Many people make a few trips to the hospital before active labor begins.
Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter HealthProdromal Labor: May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart · Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer · May last a day or more, making rest difficult · Cervix may thin but doesn’t ...Read full articleSource: Sutter Health
-
Early labor can last hours or even days, and it’s often best to stay comfortable at home until contractions are regular and strong.
Signs of Labor | Northwestern MedicineWhen you go into labor, you’ll start to feel strong contractions, which may be described as cramping that begins in your back and moves to the front of your abdomen.
- Every labor experience is unique, so trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to reach out to your care team with questions or concerns.
Wrapping up: Knowing when labor is really starting
Labor can look and feel different for everyone, but regular, intensifying contractions that don’t go away with rest and lead to cervical changes are the hallmark of true labor. If you’re ever unsure, your healthcare provider is there to support you and help you figure out what’s happening. It’s always better to check in and feel reassured as you prepare to welcome your baby.
How to Tell When Labor Begins | ACOG
You should go to the hospital if you have any of these signs: Your water has broken and you are not having contractions. You are bleeding heavily from the vagina. You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions.
Signs of Labor | Northwestern Medicine
When you go into labor, you’ll start to feel strong contractions, which may be described as cramping that begins in your back and moves to the front of your abdomen.
Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter Health
Prodromal Labor: May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart · Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer · May last a day or more, making rest difficult · Cervix may thin but doesn’t ...
Read full article
Source:
Sutter Health
Is Your Labor for Real? Here’s How to Know | AdventHealth
During real labor the intensity of the contractions will increase, while with false labor the intensity usually does not change. When contractions are five minutes apart or less for over an hour, moms should come to the hospital.
Read full article
Source:
AdventHealth
Providing feedback helps us improve Penny's responses.
Clinical Guidelines & Professional Sources
Clinical recommendations from government, public health organizations, or professional medical provider associations.
2
How to Tell When Labor Begins | ACOG
You should go to the hospital if you have any of these signs: Your water has broken and you are not having contractions. You are bleeding heavily from the vagina. You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions.
3
Signs that labour has begun - NHS
Find out how to recognise the signs of labour, which can include contractions, a show, waters breaking, backache and needing the toilet.
Read full article
Source:
nhs.uk
Early signs of labour | Ready Steady Baby!
Early signs of labour including when your waters break, you have a show, or contractions start) and how it progresses as you get ready for the birth
Read full article
Source:
NHS Inform
What are the symptoms of preterm labor? | NICHD - Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development
You may be going into preterm labor if you have symptoms such as fluids leaking from your vagina or contractions before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Read full article
Source:
nichd.nih.gov
Medical & Academic Institutions
Information from hospitals, research institutions, or academic medical centers known for clinical expertise and research contributions.
1
Early signs & symptoms of labor: What to watch for | HealthPartners Blog
Lightening often takes place 2-4 weeks before labor for first-time parents. If you have given birth before, you may not experience lightening until much closer to labor. Your baby’s new position may put added pressure on your pelvis and bladder. So while you may already be used to frequent urination as a pregnancy symptom, even more frequent urination is a potential sign ...
Read full article
Source:
healthpartners.com
4
15 signs your body is getting ready for labor - The Mother Baby Center
Discover 15 signs labor is near, from cramps to sudden energy bursts. Learn about labor symptoms to prepare for your baby's arrival.
5
Prodromal Labor (False Labor): Causes, Symptoms & Duration
They may ask for you to time your contractions or describe your pain. Other times they will ask you to come in so they can check your cervix. If there is no sign of dilation, you’re probably feeling false labor.
Read full article
Source:
Cleveland Clinic
6
Signs of Labor | Northwestern Medicine
When you go into labor, you’ll start to feel strong contractions, which may be described as cramping that begins in your back and moves to the front of your abdomen.
Signs That Labor is Starting: Alan B. Patterson, M.D.: OB-GYN
False Labor may or may not be painful, as compared to Braxton-Hicks contractions which usually are not painful. Braxton-Hicks contractions can begin as early as in the second trimester, while prodromal labor occurs closer to the end of pregnancy
Read full article
Source:
obgynpatterson.com
7
False vs True Labor: How to Tell the Difference
A bloody show or a “mucus plug” could mean a cervical change, which means labor is close · Nausea and/or vomiting might happen due to the contractions becoming very intense and the change in hormones in the bod · Sometimes vaginal tears can indicate the discomfort is more intense and things are progressing · One definite sign: The only way to know for sure if you’re in true labor is to be evaluated by a professional...
8
Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter Health
Prodromal Labor: May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart · Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer · May last a day or more, making rest difficult · Cervix may thin but doesn’t ...
Read full article
Source:
Sutter Health
9
Signs of Labor What to Expect as Your Due Date Approaches
Pain Location: Braxton Hicks contractions are typically felt more in the front of the abdomen and may not be as intense as true labor contractions. ... Water Breaking: If your water breaks (rupture of the amniotic sac), contact your doctor or midwife, even if you’re not experiencing contractions yet. Vaginal Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding, seek medical attention immediately. Decreased Fetal Movement: If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movement, let your healthcare provider know.
Read full article
Source:
Cary OBGYN
10 Signs of Labor Starting
Signs of labor may include contractions, cramps, pelvic pressure, changes in vaginal discharge and loss of mucus plug — but everyone’s situation is unique.
Read full article
Source:
Cleveland Clinic
10
How to Tell If It’s False Labor or the Real Thing - Valley Perinatal Services
False labor refers to irregular, often painless contractions that occur before the onset of true labor. These contractions are a natural part of the pregnancy process and help the uterus practice for labor and delivery.
Read full article
Source:
valleyperinatal.com
11
Is Your Labor for Real? Here’s How to Know | AdventHealth
During real labor the intensity of the contractions will increase, while with false labor the intensity usually does not change. When contractions are five minutes apart or less for over an hour, moms should come to the hospital.
Read full article
Source:
AdventHealth
Variations of Labor at Sutter Health
Learn about the different types of labor and read our tips on what may help you relax. In prodromal labor, the early phase of labor (when the cervix dilates from closed to about 3–4 centimeters) takes longer than usual.
Read full article
Source:
Sutter Health
False alarm: Braxton Hicks contractions vs. true labor | Your Pregnancy Matters | UT Southwestern Medical Center
Patients tell me, “I was having ... in some sort of pattern, but if you’re truly in labor, contractions will not stop and the time between them will get shorter....
Stages of Labor: What To Expect During Labor & Delivery
This is when your cervix fully dilates to 10 centimeters. You may feel the urge to push. Active labor typically lasts four to eight hours. Your pregnancy care provider will likely tell you that you can be at home for early labor. But you should be ready to go to your birthing center (like a hospital).
Read full article
Source:
Cleveland Clinic
Prodromal Labor: All You Should Know About It | Broward Complete OB-GYN Wellness Center
Prodromal labor is also referred to as “false labor,” and it is a labor contraction type that happens when a woman is pregnant. Often, prodromal labor contractions can be mistaken for real labor and can happen a few weeks before giving birth.
5 Signs That You’re Really in Labor | Premier Health
This discharge is usually a normal occurrence and is called “bloody show.” ... You only feel that the baby has dropped lower, also known as “lightening.” That occurs from a few weeks to a few hours before real labor begins.
Read full article
Source:
premierhealth.com