Early Signs of Labour: How to Know When It’s Time to Head to the Hospital

As an expectant parent, one of the biggest questions on your mind as you near your due date is, “How will I know when it’s time to go to the hospital?” Labour is a deeply personal and unique experience, and while some signs are common for most women, the process can unfold differently for everyone. Being able to recognise the early signs of labour and knowing when to contact your antenatal care team or head to the hospital is essential for ensuring a smooth start to your birthing experience.

In this article, we will explore the early signs of labour, discuss what to expect as labour begins, and offer tips on when it’s the right time to head to the hospital or birth centre. You’ll also learn how your antenatal care supports you in preparing for this significant moment and how antenatal education, such as antenatal classes and antenatal appointments, can help you feel more confident and informed.

The Role of Antenatal Care in Preparing for Labour

Antenatal care is crucial in helping expectant parents understand what to expect during labour and how to respond to the early signs. During your antenatal appointments, your midwife or doctor will discuss the different stages of labour, what symptoms to look out for, and when to call the hospital or make your way to your chosen birth location.

Antenatal education also provides an opportunity to learn about pain relief options, different birth positions, and relaxation techniques, such as antenatal yoga and breathing exercises, that can help you stay calm and manage discomfort as labour progresses.

Additionally, attending antenatal classes near you or online can offer valuable insights into the labour process, giving you the confidence to recognise early labour signs and understand when it’s time to take action.

Early Signs of Labour: What to Watch For

The early signs of labour can vary from woman to woman, and some may experience several signs at once, while others may only notice one or two. It’s essential to be aware of these signs, so you know when labour might be starting. Here are some common early signs that indicate labour may be imminent:

1. Lightening or Baby “Dropping”

One of the earliest signs that labour is approaching is the sensation of your baby “dropping” lower into your pelvis. This is known as lightening and usually occurs a few weeks before labour begins, especially for first-time mothers. You may notice that breathing becomes easier as the baby moves away from your diaphragm, but at the same time, you may feel increased pressure on your bladder, causing more frequent trips to the bathroom.

Although lightening doesn’t necessarily mean labour will start immediately, it’s a good indication that your body is getting ready for birth.

2. Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “practice contractions,” are irregular contractions that some women experience throughout pregnancy. As you approach your due date, these contractions may become more frequent and intense. Unlike true labour contractions, Braxton Hicks are usually irregular, don’t increase in intensity, and tend to subside if you change positions or drink water.

During antenatal care, you will learn how to differentiate between Braxton Hicks and true labour contractions. True labour contractions will become more regular, intense, and closer together over time. If you’re unsure, your antenatal clinic can help you determine whether you’re in the early stages of labour.

3. The “Show” (Loss of Mucus Plug)

The mucus plug is a protective barrier that seals the cervix during pregnancy. As labour approaches, your cervix begins to soften and thin (a process known as effacement), and the mucus plug may be dislodged. This is often referred to as the “show.”

The mucus plug can appear as a thick, jelly-like discharge, sometimes tinged with blood. While losing your mucus plug is a sign that labour is approaching, it doesn’t necessarily mean you need to head to the hospital immediately. Labour may still be days away, so it’s important to monitor other signs as well.

4. Rupture of Membranes (Water Breaking)

One of the most well-known signs of labour is when your water breaks, which refers to the rupture of the amniotic sac. For some women, this is one of the first signs of labour, while for others, the membranes may not rupture until later in the process. When your water breaks, you may experience a sudden gush of fluid or a slow, continuous trickle. The fluid should be clear or slightly tinged, and it’s important to notify your antenatal clinic if your water breaks.

Once your water has broken, it’s essential to head to the hospital or birth centre, as the risk of infection increases once the protective barrier is gone. If contractions haven’t started yet, your antenatal care team may give you guidance on what to do next.

5. Regular Contractions

The hallmark sign of active labour is regular contractions. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, which are often irregular and mild, true labour contractions are more intense, longer-lasting, and follow a consistent pattern. They’ll gradually get closer together and stronger over time.

Timing your contractions can help you determine when it’s time to head to the hospital. As a general rule, if your contractions are coming every five minutes, lasting for at least one minute each, and have been happening for an hour, it’s time to contact your antenatal clinic or hospital and start preparing for labour.

6. Lower Back Pain and Cramping

Many women experience lower back pain and cramping in the early stages of labour. This discomfort may feel similar to menstrual cramps and can be a sign that your body is getting ready for active labour. You might also feel pressure or an ache in your pelvis or thighs.

During antenatal appointments and antenatal yoga classes, you’ll learn about relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises and gentle stretching, that can help manage this discomfort in the early stages of labour.

When to Head to the Hospital or Birth Centre

While early signs of labour can be exciting, knowing when to head to the hospital or birth centre is crucial. Timing is key, as arriving too early may lead to being sent home if labour isn’t progressing, while waiting too long could mean a rushed arrival. Here are some general guidelines to help you decide when it’s time to leave:

1. Timing Your Contractions

Contractions are the most reliable indicator that labour is progressing. As mentioned earlier, when your contractions are five minutes apart, last for one minute, and follow this pattern for an hour (the 5-1-1 rule), it’s time to head to the hospital. This is especially important for first-time mothers, as labour can take longer for subsequent births.

Your antenatal clinic will provide advice on timing your contractions and can answer any questions you may have during early labour.

2. Water Breaking

If your water breaks, it’s essential to contact your antenatal clinic or hospital immediately, even if you haven’t started having contractions. Your healthcare provider will likely ask about the colour of the fluid, as it should be clear. If the fluid is green or brown, it could be a sign that your baby has passed meconium (the first bowel movement), which can sometimes indicate foetal distress.

In some cases, your antenatal care team may recommend heading to the hospital immediately after your water breaks, while in other cases, they may advise waiting until contractions begin.

3. Decreased Foetal Movement

If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements during late pregnancy or early labour, it’s important to contact your antenatal clinic or hospital right away. Reduced foetal movement could be a sign that your baby is in distress and needs immediate attention.

Antenatal checkups will have included regular monitoring of your baby’s growth and movements, so if you notice any changes, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

4. Other Signs of Concern

Certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention, even if you aren’t experiencing regular contractions or haven’t had any other signs of labour. These include:

Heavy vaginal bleeding

Severe abdominal pain

High fever

Severe headache or vision changes (which could indicate preeclampsia)

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your antenatal clinic or hospital immediately for advice.

How Antenatal Care and Education Can Help

Antenatal care is essential for helping you prepare for the early signs of labour and knowing when to head to the hospital. By attending regular antenatal checkups and taking part in antenatal classes near you, you’ll gain valuable knowledge about the labour process and what to expect.

Antenatal classes cover topics such as recognising the signs of labour, timing contractions, pain management techniques, and what to pack for the hospital. These classes may also include information on antenatal yoga and antenatal massage, which can help you relax and manage discomfort in the weeks leading up to labour.

Additionally, attending antenatal appointments allows your healthcare team to monitor your progress and answer any questions you have about the early signs of labour. This ongoing support can help you feel more confident and prepared when the time comes to give birth.

Conclusion

Recognising the early signs of labour is an important step in ensuring a smooth and timely trip to the hospital or birth centre. By staying informed and understanding the role of antenatal care in preparing for labour, you can approach the process with greater confidence. Remember, every labour experience is different, and it’s essential to listen to your body and trust your instincts. Regular antenatal checkups, antenatal yoga, and antenatal education can all provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to manage this exciting and sometimes unpredictable time.