You have spent the last nine months preparing for the time that you would go into labor. Now that you are in the last stage of your pregnancy, it is important to know what to expect as well as when it's time to call your doctor and head to the hospital. Labor and delivery do not always go as planned, so if you feel unsure of what you are feeling or are worried that your labor is not progressing normally, call your doctor for advice.
Early Symptoms
As your cervix begins to thin and dilate in preparation for childbirth, you may lose your mucous plug, which is a reddish or brown mass of mucous. This can happen several days or weeks before actual labor begins or in the first stages of early labor. Your uterus begins contracting to dilate your cervix fully and get your baby in the correct position for delivery. At first, your contractions are few and far between, but as labor picks up, they increase in number and intensity. Other early signs of labor include a feeling of restlessness, often referred to as "nesting," and diarrhea.
Going to the Hospital
Ask your doctor exactly when you should leave for the hospital. If you are full-term, he may advise that you wait until your contractions are coming regularly every five minutes. For second and subsequent pregnancies, he may prefer for you to go to the hospital sooner, as labor may progress more quickly. If your water breaks, you may feel a trickle or gush of fluid, and this is an indication that you should call your doctor to find out if he would like you to go straight to the hospital. If you notice bright red blood or are in severe pain, head to the hospital right away.
False Labor
Many women experience false labor, or Braxton Hicks contractions, from the second trimester of pregnancy until before labor begins. These contractions do not come regularly, and they do not do much to ripen the cervix for delivery. Most of the time, you can stop Braxton Hicks contractions by lying on your left side, drinking a glass of water or doing something else to relax. Once Braxton Hicks become regular and start coming every 10 minutes, you may be in the beginning stages of real labor.
Preterm Labor
If you are not yet 37 weeks pregnant, regular contractions and other labor signs are considered premature labor. Premature infants are at risk for several serious health problems, depending on how far along you are. Your baby's lungs and other organs may not be developed fully, and she may be at risk for developmental, breathing or digestive problems if she is born too soon. If you are having contractions that are coming regularly or are getting stronger, call your health care provider or seek emergency care immediately. With proper treatment, your labor may be stopped or slowed down, giving your baby more time to develop.
