7 Labor Signals That Can Tell You That Your Little One Might Make an Appearance Soon

Are these dull cramps signaling that your baby is settling or lowering into your pelvis or are they a result of the spicy pasta you savored last night? Is it water breaking or just urine leaking because of the increased pressure on your bladder? All these early signs of labor are sometimes vague and often misinterpreted. Read on to know when you are approaching labor and recognize the cues that signal the first signs of labor.

First Signs of Labor

Instead of waiting for labor to shock you, learn and identify the early signs of labor to be prepared. So, let us understand what signs may signal that labor is approaching:

1. Lightening or dropping

This is one of the major signs that your baby is getting ready for labor. Baby dropping is when the baby’s head drops lower into your pelvis, coming in contact with your pubic bones. The baby will move lower and lower as labor progresses.

2. Mucus plug discharge

The function of the mucus plug is to seal the cervix that protects the fetus from infection. As a woman reaches near to labor, estrogen level starts rising, making the plug thin and the cervix gradually softens and dilates.

3. Labor contractions

Labor contractions create discomfort in your lower abdomen, along with pressure in the pelvis. These contractions move in a wave-like motion from the top of the uterus to the bottom. And changing position or relaxing will not lessen the pain in any way.

4. Unbearable back pain

Most women experience back pain for months during pregnancy but if the back pain becomes harsh, this can be a signal that you are experiencing “back labor.” Normally, a baby descends the birth canal with its face pressed against the mother’s spine but in some cases, the baby descends with its skull pressing the mom’s spine. This process results in constant unbearable back pain.

5. Water breaking

The fluid-filled sac that surrounds the baby during pregnancy is called the amniotic membrane. Once this sac ruptured, it signals water breaking and that the labor is just around the corner.

6. Loser joints

If you notice that ligaments around your pelvis are loosening up, that means your body is getting ready for the job ahead.

7. Nesting instinct

Some women experience a sudden burst of energy after weeks of tiredness and urge to get ready shortly before their baby’s arrival, this is called nesting instinct. You may feel like decorating the house, shopping, cooking but don’t overdo it.

You may like to read: Follow These 6 Labor Tips and Rock Your First Birth

While it's important to know these signs of labor, it's also essential to be prepared for labor. As soon as you enter the third trimester of pregnancy, you should have all your and your baby's essentials ready for when you arrive at the hospital for delivery. The Mylo Hospital Bag Essentials Kit can be your ideal companion for the big day and can help ensure that your delivery goes smoothly.

References

1. NICHD. (2017). When does labor usually start?
2. InformedHealth.org. (2006). Pregnancy and birth: When your baby’s due date has passed. NCBI