As you near the end of your pregnancy, you become highly attuned to every new sensation. Is that a contraction? Was that a sign? The anticipation can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. This Symptom Checker is designed to be your guide through these final weeks, helping you interpret your body's signals and distinguish between the early signs of labor and the real deal. By answering a few questions, you can gain clarity and confidence about when to rest, when to monitor, and when to call your provider.
The Key Signs of Labor Explained
Labor is a process, and it often begins with subtle signs before progressing. Our checker will ask you about the most important ones:
- Progressive Contractions: True labor contractions are the star of the show. Unlike Braxton Hicks, they don't fizzle out. They will grow progressively longer, stronger, and closer together over time and will not stop when you change activities. Use our Contraction Timer to track their pattern.
- Rupture of Membranes (Water Breaking): This can be a dramatic gush or a slow, uncontrollable trickle of amniotic fluid. It's a definitive sign that labor is near. If this happens, you should always call your doctor or midwife.
- Bloody Show: As your cervix begins to efface (thin out) and dilate (open up), you may lose your mucus plug, which can be accompanied by a pink or brown-tinged discharge. This is a very reliable sign that labor is imminent.
Other Subtle Signs Your Body is Preparing
In the days or even weeks before labor truly begins, your body gives clues that it's getting ready. You may or may not notice these 'pre-labor' signs:
- Lightening: You may suddenly feel like you can breathe more deeply. This is a sign the baby has 'dropped' lower into your pelvis, relieving pressure on your diaphragm.
- Nesting Instinct: A sudden and intense burst of energy and an urge to clean, organize, and prepare your home for the baby's arrival is common.
- Dull Lower Backache: A persistent, dull ache in your lower back that comes and goes can be an early sign of uterine activity.
A Clear Guide: When to Call Your Doctor or Midwife
When in doubt, always call. But here is a general guide to help you:
- Call Immediately If: Your water breaks (note the time and color of the fluid), you experience bright red vaginal bleeding (more than spotting), you have constant and severe pain with no relief between contractions, or you notice a significant decrease in your baby's movement.
- Call When Your Contractions Are in a Pattern: For most first-time mothers, this means following the '5-1-1 Rule' (contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour). Follow the specific instructions your provider has given you.
Important Medical Notes
This symptom checker is an educational guide, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Every labor is unique, and your instincts are a powerful tool. If you feel that something is wrong or you are concerned for any reason, trust your gut and contact your healthcare provider immediately. They are expecting your calls and are there to support you.