When Does Labor Begin?

The average duration of pregnancy is 9 months and 10 days. It typically occurs between 37 and 42 weeks. However, this process may vary in each pregnancy. With the birth of the baby, pregnancy comes to an end. Various symptoms may occur during pregnancy [1].

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Recognizing the signs of labor helps you take the right steps at the right time. Every symptom carries a message — listen to your body and stay in communication with your care team.

What Are the Signs of Approaching Labor?

Changes in a woman’s body before labor may appear an hour before delivery or even 2–3 weeks in advance [1].

• Lightening (baby dropping):

  Especially in first-time mothers, the baby descends into the pelvis about 2–4 weeks before labor begins. The mother can usually feel this change. In subsequent pregnancies, it may not be noticeable. As the baby drops, pressure in the pelvic and rectal area increases, while breathing becomes easier due to reduced pressure on the lungs [2].

• Weight loss or slowing of weight gain:

  In the last month of pregnancy, weight gain usually slows down or stops. Some women may even experience slight weight loss as labor approaches.

• Changes in energy levels:

  Many expectant mothers feel more fatigued during the final month. However, some may experience increased energy levels depending on hormonal changes.

• Bloody show or pink discharge:

  During pregnancy, a thick mucus plug blocks the cervix and prevents bacteria from entering the uterus. As labor approaches, the cervix begins to thin and dilate, causing small blood vessels to rupture and resulting in pink discharge. In some cases, the mucus plug may be expelled with blood. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), this is an important sign that labor is near [1].

  The appearance of the mucus plug indicates that labor is approaching, but it does not occur in every pregnancy. Labor may begin hours, days, or even weeks later. Therefore, it is important to wait for regular contractions or the rupture of membranes.

• Increased Braxton Hicks contractions:

  After the 30th week of pregnancy, so-called false contractions (Braxton Hicks) may occur. These contractions help prepare the uterus for real labor [3]. They are usually painless, although some women may experience discomfort. These contractions are irregular, whereas true labor contractions become regular and progressively stronger.

• How to distinguish real labor contractions:

  Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and usually subside with rest. Drinking plenty of water, taking a warm shower, practicing breathing exercises, and changing positions may help reduce them. True labor contractions, however, do not go away, increase in intensity, and occur at regular intervals. According to ACOG guidelines, real contractions last about 60–90 seconds and occur every 2–5 minutes [1]. When contractions become regular every 5 minutes, it is time to contact your midwife or doctor and go to the hospital.

• Increased vaginal discharge:

  As labor approaches, vaginal discharge increases. It is usually white, sometimes mucus-like, and odorless.

• Diarrhea:

  Due to hormonal changes, bowel movements may become more frequent, and stools may soften. Diarrhea can be a sign that labor may begin within 24–48 hours [2].

• Frequent urination:

  As the baby’s head moves downward into the birth canal, pressure on the bladder increases, leading to frequent urination [2].

• Easier breathing:

  As the baby drops, pressure on the lungs decreases, making breathing easier. According to the Mayo Clinic, this may occur weeks or even hours before labor begins [2].

To prepare mentally for labor, you can review our guide How to prepare mentally for childbirth?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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  How long after the mucus plug comes out does labor begin?

  Labor may begin within hours or even weeks after the mucus plug is released. Therefore, this alone is not a signal to go to the hospital.

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  Are Braxton Hicks contractions dangerous?

  No, they are completely normal and part of the body’s preparation for labor.

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  When should I go to the hospital?

  If contractions occur every 5 minutes, last about 1 minute, and continue for over an hour, it is time to go to the hospital.

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  When does the baby drop?

  In first pregnancies, usually 2–4 weeks before labor. In later pregnancies, it may happen closer to delivery.

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  Are labor symptoms the same for every woman?

  No. Labor symptoms can vary greatly from person to person and from pregnancy to pregnancy. Staying in communication with your healthcare team is the safest approach.

References

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
2. Mayo Clinic.
3. StatPearls.