Every woman’s experience of labour is different. Labour may begin gradually or start more suddenly, and knowing the signs can help you feel prepared and understand when to contact the maternity unit.
The Latent (Early) phase of labour
Labour often begins with a period known as the latent phase or early labour. During this time, the cervix softens, shortens (effaces), and begins to open. Contractions may be irregular and can vary in strength and frequency.
Early labour can last several hours or, for some women, several days. If you and your baby are well and there are no concerns, it is often more comfortable to remain at home during this stage. Being in a familiar environment can help you relax, rest, eat and drink normally, and use coping strategies such as movement, hypnobirthing, relaxation techniques, warm baths, or TENS. Remaining at home during early labour may also reduce anxiety and support the natural progress of labour.
Contact your maternity unit if you are unsure whether labour has started or if you would like advice and reassurance.
Common signs that labour may be starting
Contractions
Labour contractions usually:
- Become regular and occur at increasingly shorter intervals.
- Gradually become longer, stronger, and more intense.
- Continue regardless of movement or position changes.
- Often begin as period-like pains or lower backache and progress over time.
A show
During pregnancy, the cervix is sealed by a plug of mucus. As the cervix begins to soften and open, this mucus may be released as a ‘show’.
A show may be:
- Clear, pink, or blood-stained.
- Sticky or jelly-like in appearance.
Having a show can indicate that labour may start soon, but it does not necessarily mean labour is imminent.
Waters breaking (Rupture of membranes)
The amniotic sac surrounding the baby may rupture before or during labour.
You may notice:
- A gush of fluid.
- A steady trickle of fluid.
If you think your waters have broken, contact the maternity unit. A midwife will assess your symptoms and may recommend that you attend for further assessment. It is helpful to note the colour, smell, and amount of fluid. You should seek advice promptly if the fluid is green, brown, blood-stained, or if you have any concerns about your baby’s movements.
Backache and period-like pain
Many women experience:
- Persistent lower backache.
- Cramping or period-like pains.
- Pelvic pressure.
These symptoms may occur during early labour as the cervix begins to change.
Changes in your baby’s movements
Your baby should continue to move as normal throughout labour and until birth. If you notice any reduction or change in your baby’s usual pattern of movements, contact your maternity unit immediately.
When to contact the Maternity Unit
Contact your maternity unit if:
- Your contractions are becoming regular, stronger, and more frequent.
- Your waters have broken.
- You have vaginal bleeding.
- You are concerned about reduced fetal movements.
- You feel unable to cope at home.
- You are worried about your own wellbeing or that of your baby.