Common Pre Labour Signs: What They Mean and What to Do
Every body moves toward labour a little differently. Some people have clear signs for days or weeks. Others notice nothing until contractions start. None of these are indicators of exactly when labour will begin. They are simply hints that your body is preparing.
Here are the most common signs and what they mean.
1. Losing the mucus plug
What it is:
The mucus plug is a thick, jelly like barrier that seals the cervix during pregnancy. It protects the uterus from bacteria.
What it looks like:
Clear, white, or slightly yellow
Thick, sticky, or stringy like egg whites
Sometimes comes out all at once or gradually over days
Totally normal if:
It is clear or slightly blood tinged
It happens after a cervical check or intercourse
It regenerates. Yes, you can lose it and then your body can make more
When to contact your provider:
If it is accompanied by bright red bleeding that is flowing like a period
Losing the mucus plug means your cervix is softening or beginning to open. Labour could begin soon, or it could still be a week or more away.
2. Bloody show
What it is:
Bloody show is mucus mixed with blood as tiny blood vessels in the cervix stretch or open. This is different from the mucus plug alone.
What it looks like:
Pink, brown, or streaked with red
Thicker than regular discharge
Totally normal if:
It happens after a vaginal exam or intercourse
It is streaky, light, or mixed with mucus
When to contact your provider:
If bleeding is bright red and similar to a period
If it soaks a pad or continues to flow
Bloody show usually indicates that labour is approaching more closely than just mucus plug alone.
3. Water breaking (rupture of membranes)
What it is:
The amniotic sac around your baby tears and fluid leaks.
What it feels like:
A sudden gush
A slow trickle that does not stop with pelvic floor engagement
How to test it:
Put on a clean pad. If the fluid keeps leaking and smells sweet or like semen (not like urine), it may be amniotic fluid. You can also lay down for 10-20 minutes, stand up, do this once or twice and if it is trickling every time you stand, it is most likely amniotic fluid.
Totally normal if:
It happens after contractions have begun
Fluid is clear or slightly cloudy
When to contact your provider immediately:
If fluid is green, brown, or yellow (possible meconium)
If baby is not moving normally
If you feel a cord prolapse sensation (pressure or something unusual in vagina)
If you test positive for GBS or have been told to report rupture of membranes quickly
Most people go into labour within 24 hours after their water breaks, but not always.
4. Braxton Hicks contractions
What they are:
Braxton Hicks are practice contractions. The muscles of the uterus tighten but do not dilate the cervix.
How they feel:
Tightening or squeezing across the whole belly
Not painful, more uncomfortable or awkward
Irregular and unpredictable
How to tell them apart from real labour:
Braxton Hicks usually stop when you change positions, hydrate, or rest. True labour contractions become stronger, longer, and closer together.
Totally normal if:
They happen more in the evening or after activity
They increase with dehydration
When to contact your provider:
If contractions are painful and regular before 37 weeks
5. Increased pelvic pressure and back cramping
What it is:
Your baby dropping lower into the pelvis (lightening). The body is preparing for birth.
Normal if:
You feel more pressure between your legs
You waddle or feel lightning crotch sensations
You experience mild menstrual like cramping
When to reach out:
If the back pain becomes rhythmic and intense
If you have continuous severe abdominal pain
6. Diarrhea or sudden burst of energy
Hormonal shifts can loosen your bowels. Some people also feel a surge of energy, often called the “nesting” phase.
Totally normal if:
You are suddenly organizing your whole house at 11 pm
You have loose stools along with other labour signs
Contact your provider if:
Diarrhea comes with fever, vomiting, or signs of dehydration
A very important reminder
You can experience every sign on this list and still not be in active labour.
You can have none of these signs and suddenly find yourself in active labour.
Every body has its own timeline.
If anything feels off or you are unsure, it is always appropriate to contact your midwife or doctor. You will never be “bothering” them by asking.
