Identify Signs of Labor
Recognize indicators that labor is beginning
At the beginning of week 37 of pregnancy, most medical professionals consider babies to be full-term and will not intervene if labor begins. With all of the different symptoms that pregnancy brings about, some women are nervous that they will miss the signs of labor and not make it to the hospital in time. Review the signs of labor to enable easy recognition of these changes.
Water Breaking
This sign of impending labor is one of the most obvious. Although only roughly 10% of women will experience the membranes rupturing on their own, it is easily recognizable. When the water breaks, it may come as a gush of fluid or as a slow trickle. Depending on the position of the baby, the head could serve as a “cork” that will prevent all of the fluid from passing. When the water breaks, call the doctor for further instruction. Some prefer that women go straight to the hospital, while others are not as strict on the timetable after the rupture of membranes. If the fluid is the color or consistency of pea soup, notify medical personnel immediately.
Contractions
Many women experience practice contractions, also referred to as Braxton Hicks contractions, for weeks or even months before labor and delivery. For first time moms, there may be anxiety about whether she will recognize true contractions. An easy way to tell the difference is by examining several criteria:
- Real contractions will continue to get stronger and closer together. Braxton Hicks generally do not produce a pattern.
- Changing positions, lying on the left side and drinking fluids will not make real contractions stop. Braxton Hicks will stop or lessen when these tactics are used.
- Real contractions typically last from 30-70 seconds. Braxton Hicks can last for the same time period but will be more sporadic in pattern.
- Contractions can start in the back and radiate to the abdomen with some women describing them as severe menstrual cramps. Braxton Hicks are generally painless and only felt in the abdominal area.
With a first baby, most doctors recommend going to the hospital when contractions are 4 to 7 minutes apart for at least an hour. For veteran moms, the recommendation is generally to head to the hospital when contractions are ten to fifteen minutes apart.
Nausea and/or Diarrhea
Just before labor begins, women may experience nausea or diarrhea. This is the body’s way of cleaning out before labor begins. Especially when combined with other symptoms, this can be a sign that labor is in the very near future. For many women, this is a relief as it lessens the concern about having a bowel movement during delivery.
Dilation of the Cervix
Some women may begin to dilate to 1 to 2 centimeters weeks before labor actually begins. When the cervix dilates beyond this point, it is a sign that labor may begin soon, particularly when it is accompanied by a regular pattern of contractions. Medical personnel can determine dilation of the cervix during an internal exam. In the last month of pregnancy, many doctors add this internal exam to the weekly prenatal appointment.
Increased Pelvic Pressure
As the baby’s head drops and engages, the woman will feel increasing pressure in the pelvic region. While the baby may drop into position weeks before labor begins, a subsequent increase in pressure could mean that the beginning of labor is in the near future. During internal exams, the doctor can evaluate the baby’s station or position. Before the baby is engaged, it is referred to as a negative number. At engagement, the baby is in a position of zero with further dropping referred to as positive numbers.
Always follow the instructions of the doctor or midwife when evaluating the signs of labor. Some will recommend laboring at home for some time before making the journey to the hospital, while others will want the woman to be evaluated when symptoms begin. The doctor should begin to review this information at appointments so there is no confusion on what should be done when the time comes. It is advisable to have overnight bags packed and ready to go by week 37 of pregnancy, if not earlier. Be sure the car safety seat has also been installed as hospitals will not allow the baby to leave without a car seat.
Newborn baby
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