Signs of Labour: Symptoms, Contractions, Plug and Waters

Towards the end of pregnancy the body prepares for birth and "signs of labour" appear. Understanding them helps you not panic early and not miss the moment. Let's break down the signs of labour, how to tell real contractions from practice ones and when to go to hospital.

What Signs of Labour Are

These are natural signs that labour is near, appearing days to weeks before it. They do not mean labour will start this minute but show the body is getting ready. The timing differs between first and later pregnancies.

The Main Signs

• the belly dropping (easier to breathe, but pressure low down);
• the mucus plug coming away — mucus, sometimes streaked with blood;
• practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) — irregular, painless;
• weight loss, frequent stool, the "nesting instinct".

Practice Contractions vs Real Ones

Real contractions are regular, more frequent and stronger — that is the start of labour.

The Plug and Waters Breaking

The mucus plug coming away is normal before labour (labour may still start days later). But waters breaking (leaking or a gush of fluid) is a reason to go to hospital, even without contractions, so the doctor can assess the situation.

When to Go to Hospital

Guides: regular contractions (e.g. every ~5 minutes for an hour), waters breaking, bloody discharge appearing (see discharge in pregnancy) or a sharp drop in movements (fetal movements). If in doubt, call the maternity unit. See also pregnancy week by week.

If you are worried and want to understand your sensations, describe them in the symptom review service. But with waters breaking or regular contractions — go to hospital at once.

This article is informational. The decision on admission is the doctor's; if in doubt, call the maternity unit.