For first time moms especially, there can be fear that she will not recognize the early signs of labor. Every woman fears being stuck on the side of the highway with an untrained professional delivering her baby. Learn to recognize when your body may be preparing for labor and delivery by reviewing the early signs of labor that may be present in some women.
Dropping
Many women will know when the baby drops into position. As the baby moves further into the pelvis region, it can be very uncomfortable. Some women get the sensation that the baby is just going to fall out. Although it can feel that way, it will not happen. This also causes many women to adopt the pregnancy waddle when walking. Depending on how she is carrying the baby, it may become easier to breathe after this happens.
Change in Activity Level
Different women experience this in different ways. Some will have a burst of energy when they feel compelled to clean and organize everything in their home. This is also referred to as nesting. For others, they may feel even more exhausted than normal. This can be the body’s signal to conserve energy before labor and delivery.
Passing Mucous Plug
This typically occurs when the cervix begins to dilate. Some women may notice pink or brown tinted mucous when wiping after going to the bathroom. Others may not notice the passage of the plug at all.
Increasing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are practice contractions for the uterus. These contractions are generally painless and cause a tightening of the belly. When Braxton Hicks begin, try drinking a few glasses of water and changing position. If these things make the contractions stop, you can rest assured it is Braxton Hicks and not the real thing.
Cervix Changes
During an internal examination, your doctor may note that your cervix is beginning to thin or shorten. This is a good sign that your body is beginning to prepare for labor and generally happens before the cervix begins to dilate. Your medical practitioner may also mention that you are 1-2cm dilated during the exam. This can happen weeks before delivery and is not a reason for hospital admission unless you are not full term or you also have a consistent pattern of contractions along with dilation.
As the body begins to prepare for labor, it is an exciting time. Keep in mind that these changes do not mean that labor and delivery are imminent. These changes can begin to occur as much as two to four weeks before delivery or just before real labor begins.
Source: Mayo Clinic
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