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Pregnancy marks the beginning of a journey that brings many life-changing experiences for both mother and baby. If you are expecting your baby, this is the time to recognise the signs of labour so that you can be well prepared.
Below are some signs that indicate labour may be near:
Lightening refers to the sensation of the baby moving lower into the pelvis. This may bring relief as pressure on the diaphragm decreases, making breathing easier. However, it may also increase pressure on the bladder, leading to more frequent urination. You may not notice a physical change yourself, but others may observe that your abdomen appears lower.
During pregnancy, a thick mucus plug seals the opening of the uterus to protect the cervix from bacteria. As the cervix softens and thins in preparation for labour, this mucus plug is naturally released.
The mucus plug may look like normal vaginal discharge and is known as a “show”. Its colour can range from clear to pink or blood-tinged. It may be released minutes, hours, or even days before labour begins, and some women may not notice it.
You may experience false contractions during pregnancy, especially as your due date approaches. These are known as Braxton Hicks contractions. They may be uncomfortable but are usually not painful. They are irregular, unpredictable, and often feel like tightening or hardening of the abdomen without significant pain.
Braxton Hicks contractions are usually short, infrequent, and do not increase in intensity. They are commonly mistaken for true labour and may occur between weeks 36 and 40 of pregnancy.
During true labour, contractions are usually longer, stronger, and more frequent. The uterine muscles tighten, causing increasing pain. You may feel your abdomen harden when a contraction occurs and gradually soften as the pain eases.
Some women experience persistent back or lower back pain as labour approaches.
Only about 1 in 10 women experience a sudden gush of fluid when their waters break. The amniotic sac, which holds the baby and amniotic fluid, usually ruptures when labour begins. The amniotic fluid will leak out through the vagina, which is referred to as the breaking of waters.
As labour approaches, the cervix begins to dilate (open) and efface (thin). These changes can be detected during a pelvic examination.
Throughout pregnancy, you may have felt tired and lacked energy. However, one day you may wake up feeling unusually energetic and refreshed. You may feel a strong urge to clean, organise, or prepare your home for the baby’s arrival.
Once the amniotic sac ruptures, the risk of infection for both mother and baby increases. Therefore, if your waters break or you suspect they have broken, go to the hospital immediately.
Some women describe contractions as intense menstrual cramps. As labour progresses, contractions become longer, stronger, and more frequent. The uterine muscles tighten, increasing the intensity of pain. You can feel your abdomen harden during a contraction and gradually soften as the pain subsides.
These contractions help push the baby downward while opening the cervix to allow the baby to be born. Labour contractions usually follow a regular pattern, occurring every five minutes.
Here are some steps you can take during the early stages of labour:
Read more: Postnatal Care
Recognising the signs of labour early is important for both physical and mental preparation. Your partner’s understanding of these signs can also provide valuable support.
Contact us today to book an appointment with our obstetrics specialists or to learn more about our Obstetrics and Gynaecology services at your nearest Pantai Hospital.
Pantai Hospital is accredited by the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health (MSQH) for its commitment to patient safety and service quality.
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