Written by Rhonda Young-Pilon, RN BScN, CAPPA trained Labour Doula
There are cardinal signs that labor is in the beginning or early stages, although all signs are unique to each woman. We all have different birth stories, and it can be hard to know when the exact time is beginning.
Here are some signs that labor may be beginning:
- loss of mucous plug (this can range in color/consistency for each woman, some lose their plug more than once in pregnancy and some do not lose it until they are in active or transitional labor... but it generally looks like "bloody snot" and varies in size and color)
- rupture of waters (another highly variable sign) Some women may experience "trickle" which can be confused with urine leakage, vaginal discharge, or other moisture. It's not always like in the movies where it appears the woman gushes a lot of fluid. Waters are usually straw colored and have no scent. Waters can also be stained with "meconium", which is a sign that baby may have taken a bowel movement. Waters can also be a greenish color or blood stained. If your water has broken, chances are you should make your way to the labor and delivery unit to be checked.
- contractions: this can mean several things, but you probably already know a little bit about Braxton-Hicks contractions if you're in the later stages of pregnancy. True labor-style contractions are felt across the abdomen and in the back and have a distinct pattern. If you are early in pregnancy, they may feel like tightening. We will discuss in our appointments about when it is best to call your doula or obtain medical attention.
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