6 signs that childbirth is near!

When you're nearing the end of your pregnancy, some mothers-to-be are afraid to give birth, while others can't wait to see their baby arrive... One thing's for sure: after 9 months in the warmth of home, your baby is closer than ever to birth. When will he or she arrive? Only Mother Nature can tell you. But it's up to you, Mom, to recognize the signs that labor has begun!
To help you know when to go to the maternity ward, here are the 6 signs that childbirth is just around the corner!

Reminder

Every birth is unique! But in general, labor happens in three stages:

• Early (latent) phase, which can last up to 20 hours.
• Active phase, with regular contractions spaced 5 minutes (or less) apart.
• Transition phase, when the cervix dilates to 8-10 cm.

Signs That Labor May Have Started

1. Mucus Discharge
You may notice thick mucus on your underwear, either all at once or gradually. This is the mucus plug, which protected your cervix. As the cervix dilates, it loosens and may contain traces of blood—this is normal! Losing the mucus plug isn’t a sign of immediate labor but indicates your body is preparing.

2. Nausea

Some moms-to-be feel nauseous just before labor begins. It could mean your stomach is reacting to contractions, signaling that your baby’s arrival is near!

3. Accelerated Bowel Movements

As your hormones prepare for birth, they can also affect your intestines. If you experience contractions along with frequent bowel movements, labor might be starting.

4. Water Breaking: A Clear Sign of Labor!

If you feel fluid leaking (either a gush or a slow trickle), it could be amniotic fluid. To differentiate it from urine, check the amount and wetness of your underwear. Water breaking is painless, and most women go into labor within 12 hours.

🔴 Important: No matter how far along you are, if your water breaks or leaks, go to the hospital immediately! Once the amniotic sac ruptures, your baby is no longer in a sterile environment and needs medical supervision.

5. Regular Contractions: The Best Sign of Labor!

If your contractions are consistent, increasingly frequent, and painful, labor has begun! As the uterus contracts, the cervix dilates to allow your baby to pass through. These contractions feel like intense menstrual cramps. For first-time moms, regular contractions may last for hours before active labor starts.

6. Back Pain

Your baby’s position may put extra pressure on your spine, especially during contractions. If you have persistent, intense lower back pain—radiating from the abdomen to the back and vice versa—you might be in labor.

⏳ Your baby is almost here!