The early signs that labor is approaching include the baby dropping lower (lightening), losing the mucus plug or a pink-tinged "bloody show," a low backache, loose stools, and a burst of nesting energy. Labor itself is most reliably marked by regular contractions that get longer, stronger, and closer together and do not ease when you rest or move, and sometimes by your waters breaking. Practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) are irregular and settle down, which is the main way to tell them apart. Because every labor begins differently, the safest rule is simple: when in doubt, contact your midwife or maternity unit.
This guide covers the signs that labor is near, how to tell real labor from a false alarm, when to head in, and the warning signs — including those before 37 weeks — that mean call straight away. It is general information, not a diagnosis.
Signs labor may be approaching soon
In the days or couple of weeks before labor, many people notice their body getting ready. These signs do not mean labor is starting this hour, but they suggest it is not far off:
- The baby drops (lightening) — the bump sits lower as the baby moves into the pelvis, which can ease breathing but add pelvic pressure.
- Losing the mucus plug or a "bloody show" — a jelly-like discharge, sometimes pink or brown-tinged, as the cervix softens and opens.
- A dull low backache and increased pelvic or period-like cramping.
- Loose stools and a settling of appetite as hormones shift.
- A burst of "nesting" energy — a sudden urge to clean and prepare.
- More frequent practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) that tighten the bump without a steady pattern.
Signs that labor has actually started
Labor is under way when contractions become regular and build over time. True labor contractions get longer, stronger, and closer together, are often felt in the lower back wrapping around to the front, and — crucially — do not stop when you change position, rest, or drink water. You may also notice a bloody show or feel your waters break.
Real labor versus Braxton Hicks (false labor)
Telling real labor from Braxton Hicks is one of the most common questions, and the difference is mostly in the pattern. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, do not grow closer together, tend to be uncomfortable rather than painful, and usually ease off if you move, rest, or hydrate. Real labor contractions come at regular intervals, steadily intensify, and continue no matter what you do. If tightenings fade when you change what you are doing, they are most likely practice contractions.
When your waters break
Your waters may break as a sudden gush or a slow trickle. Note the time and the colour of the fluid: clear or pale straw is expected, while green, brown, or foul-smelling fluid can mean the baby has passed meconium and needs prompt review. Most people go into labor within about a day of their waters breaking. Because there is a small infection risk once they break, contact your midwife or maternity unit for advice even if contractions have not started.
The 5-1-1 rule: when to go in
A widely used guide for a first baby is 5-1-1: contractions coming about every 5 minutes, each lasting around 1 minute, continuing for at least 1 hour. That pattern usually means it is time to head to your hospital or birth center. Your own team may give you a slightly different number, so follow their instructions. Go in sooner — whatever your contraction pattern — if your waters break, you have bleeding, your baby is moving less, or you simply feel you need to be there.
Signs of preterm labor — before 37 weeks
Labor is considered preterm when it starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy, and it needs urgent attention because care can sometimes slow or safely manage an early birth. Contact your maternity unit immediately if, before 37 weeks, you have regular or frequent contractions, a low dull backache, persistent pelvic or lower-belly pressure, period-like cramping, a change in vaginal discharge, or any fluid or bleeding. It is always right to be checked — do not wait to see if it passes.
Overdue: 39 to 41 weeks with no signs
Reaching your due date, or going a week past it, with no signs of labor is common — especially with a first baby. A pregnancy is considered full term from 39 weeks, and many begin naturally between 39 and 41 weeks. If you pass 41 weeks, your provider will usually monitor you more closely and talk through options, including induction, to keep you and your baby safe. Keep track of your baby's movements throughout, and report any decrease straight away.
Warning signs that mean call now
Some signs need urgent contact at any stage of late pregnancy or labor, not a wait-and-see approach:
- Your baby is moving less or their pattern of movement changes.
- Heavy or bright red vaginal bleeding.
- Green or brown waters, or a strong smell.
- Severe or constant pain, or a severe headache with vision changes or swelling.
- Any signs of labor before 37 weeks.
Getting ready and staying calm in early labor
Early labor can last many hours, particularly for a first baby, so rest, stay hydrated, eat lightly, and time your contractions rather than rushing in at the first twinge. Knowing the stages ahead helps you pace yourself and make calm decisions as things progress.
Keep reading
For what comes next, read our stage-by-stage guide to labor and delivery and our walkthrough of what to expect during a vaginal birth. To weigh your choices ahead of the day, see our overview of birth options.
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs that labor is starting?
Common early signs include the baby dropping lower, losing the mucus plug or a pink-tinged bloody show, a low backache, loose stools, and a burst of nesting energy. Labor is confirmed by regular contractions that get stronger and closer together and do not ease with rest.
How do I know if it is real labor or Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, do not intensify, and usually ease when you move, rest, or drink water. Real labor contractions come at regular intervals, steadily get stronger and closer together, and continue no matter what you do.
When should I go to the hospital in labor?
A common guide for a first baby is the 5-1-1 rule: contractions about 5 minutes apart, each lasting around 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. Follow your own team's advice, and go sooner if your waters break, you bleed, or your baby moves less.
What are the signs of preterm labor?
Before 37 weeks, contact your maternity unit immediately if you have regular contractions, a low dull backache, persistent pelvic pressure, period-like cramping, a change in discharge, or any fluid or bleeding. Preterm labor needs urgent review, so do not wait.
Is it normal to be 39 or 41 weeks with no signs of labor?
Yes. Many pregnancies, especially first ones, reach or pass the due date without early signs. Labor often begins naturally between 39 and 41 weeks. Past 41 weeks your provider will monitor you more closely and discuss options such as induction.
Medical disclaimer: This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or emergency care. It cannot tell you whether you are in labor. If you think labor may be starting, your waters break, you have bleeding, your baby is moving less, or you notice any signs before 37 weeks, contact your midwife, doctor, or maternity unit right away. Always follow the guidance of the qualified professionals caring for you. See our full medical disclaimer.
Written by the Babbez Editorial Team. Sources: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), Mayo Clinic, NHS.