In the last weeks of pregnancy the big question is: "Is this labour?" Knowing the signs in advance helps you stay calm and take the right step at the right time.
Early signs that labour has begun
According to the NHS, labour may be starting if you have:
- contractions or tightenings;
- a "show" (the mucus plug coming away);
- backache;
- pressure in your bowel from the baby's head;
- a trickle or gush of fluid from the amniotic sac.
When to contact your midwife
If you think labour is starting, or contractions come every 5 minutes or more often, contact your midwife or maternity unit. The NHS says to call whenever you are unsure or worried.
Call straight away if
your waters break; you have vaginal bleeding; your baby is moving noticeably less; you are under 37 weeks and think labour has started; a single contraction lasts longer than 2 minutes; you have 6 or more contractions in 10…