Labor (also called childbirth) is the process of your baby leaving the uterus (womb). You’re in labor when you have regular contractions that cause your cervix to change. Contractions are when the muscles of your uterus get tight and then relax.

Signs That Labor Is Close

• Baby drops: Also called lightening, this means your baby has moved lower into your pelvis in preparation for birth. It can happen weeks or just hours before labor starts.
• Bloody show: You may notice increased vaginal discharge that’s clear, pink, or slightly bloody.
• Cervical changes: Your doctor or midwife may tell you that your cervix has started to efface (thin) and dilate (open). Full dilation is 10 centimeters.
• Nesting instinct: A sudden burst of energy and desire to organize or prepare your home for the baby. Totally real—you’ll find yourself cleaning everything! 🤣

Signs of True Labor

• Strong and regular contractions: Lasting 30 to 70 seconds, coming 5 to 10 minutes apart, and increasing in intensity. They’re so strong you can’t walk or talk through them.
• Persistent lower back and belly pain: This pain doesn’t go away when you move or change positions.
• Bloody mucus discharge: Known as the bloody show, this is a sign labor has begun.
• Water breaking: Amniotic fluid may gush out or trickle. This means your baby’s protective sac has ruptured.

Note: Not all contractions mean true labor. Braxton-Hicks contractions, also called false labor, can happen as your body prepares for the real thing. These help soften and thin the cervix but don’t lead to delivery.