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Labour is an exciting and transformative experience, but it can also bring uncertainty—especially when you're trying to figure out if it's really starting! Understanding the key signs of labour and how to stay calm can help you feel more confident and in control as you approach birth.
Early Signs That Labour Might Be Approaching
Before active labour begins, your body often gives you clues that birth is getting closer. These early signs can happen days (or even weeks) before labour fully kicks in:
1️⃣ Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions – These ‘practice’ contractions may feel stronger and more frequent as your body prepares for birth.
2️⃣ Baby “Dropping” (Lightening) – You might notice your baby sitting lower in your pelvis, making breathing easier but increasing pressure on your bladder.
3️⃣ Lower Back Pain & Cramps – Some women experience period-like cramps or a dull ache in the lower back as early labour approaches.
4️⃣ Increased Vaginal Discharge & Mucus Plug Loss – A thick or blood-tinged discharge (known as the ‘bloody show’) can be a sign that the cervix is beginning to soften and open.
5️⃣ A Burst of Energy (“Nesting Instinct”) – Many women feel an intense urge to clean and organize just before labour begins.
Signs That Labour Has Officially Started
While the early signs suggest that birth is getting closer, these key indicators mean labour is really starting:
✅ Regular, Strong Contractions – Unlike Braxton Hicks, true labour contractions become stronger, more consistent, and don’t go away when you change positions.
✅ Waters Breaking – This can be a big gush or a slow trickle. Labour often follows within hours, but not always immediately. Reminder: your waters won't always break at the start of labour, for lots of people, their waters don't break until much later into labour or even as baby is being born.
✅ Intensifying Back Pain or Pressure – Some women experience contractions primarily in their lower back, especially if baby is in a certain position.
✅ Cervical Changes Confirmed by a Midwife – If you’re unsure whether it’s active labour, a midwife can check if your cervix is dilating.
How to Stay Calm & Relaxed When Labour Begins
When labour starts, your mindset plays a huge role in how you experience it. Here are some simple ways to stay calm and in control:
🌿 Use Your Breath – Practice slow, deep ‘up breathing’ to stay relaxed. Breathe in through your nose for four counts, then out through your mouth for six.
🌿 Create a Peaceful Environment – Dim the lights, play calming music, and use aromatherapy to help your body feel safe and relaxed.
🌿 Rest & Conserve Energy – If labour starts at night, try to rest or sleep as much as possible to save your energy. If you are struggling to sleep/rest, jump in the bath or shower, or pop your favourite show on - try to let your partner sleep as long as possible, you'll need them later!
🌿 Stay Hydrated & Nourished – Light snacks and plenty of fluids will help keep your strength up. 🌿 Move & Change Positions – Gentle movement, like swaying, walking, or using a birth ball, can help ease discomfort and encourage baby down into our pelvis.
🌿 Trust Your Body – Remember, your body knows how to birth. Hypnobirthing techniques can help you stay in tune with your natural instincts.
When to Contact Your Midwife or Birth Team
The age old question! You don’t need to rush to the hospital or call your midwife at the first sign of labour. However, you should reach out if:
📌 Your contractions are strong, regular, and around 3-5 minutes apart (for first-time mums, this is a good indicator it’s time to go in).
📌 Your waters have broken, especially if the fluid is discoloured or has a strong odour.
📌 You have any concerns about your baby’s movements or overall well-being (always contact your midwife or healthcare practitioner if you have any concern over your baby's movements).
📌 You feel like you need extra support or reassurance—your birth team is there to help!
Final Thoughts
Every birth is unique, and labour can unfold in different ways. The key is to trust your body, stay as relaxed as possible, and remember that you’ve got this! By preparing with hypnobirthing techniques, you can approach labour with confidence and calmness, knowing that each contraction is bringing you closer to meeting your baby.
💛 Want to feel even more prepared for birth? My hypnobirthing courses are designed to give you all the tools you need to stay calm, confident, and in control during labour.
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