Going into Labour? Here's are the signs of Labour to watch out for

The process of childbirth is commonly referred to as Labour; the process of you giving birth. Medically, Childbirth, the process of delivering a baby and the placenta, membranes, and umbilical cord.

 

Going into labour? Here is how to tell

Predicting exactly when labour will start might be a little bit difficult because even when you notice early signs of labour, your baby’s birth could still be days or weeks away.

 

What are the early signs of labour?

Baby “drops”

Baby dropping is termed as lightening and this is one of the major signs that labour is approaching. Your baby’s head literally “drops” lower into your pelvis, becoming engaged within your pubic bones. This starts the baby’s descent down and out into the world.

Cervix dilates

Childbirth usually occurs in three stages, there is the first stage, the second stage and the third stage. The first stage of labour is the longest phase and it is characterised by the early, active and transition phases. Birth is possible once the cervix dilates between 7cm and 10cm.

 

Other signs of delivery

  • Cramps and increased back pain
  • Loose-feeling joints
  • Diarrhoea
  • Weight gain stops
  • Fatigue and “nesting instinct”
  • Vaginal discharge changes colour and consistency
  • Stronger, more frequent contractions
  • Water breaks

References

  1. WebMD. Normal labour and delivery process.  Accessed on 10th October 2018
  2. American pregnancy. Labour and First birth. Accessed on 10th October 2018
  3. MedlinePlus. Childbirth. Accessed on 10th October 2018
  4. Babycenter. Signs of Labour. Accessed on 10th October 2018
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