7 signs that childbirth is near
Verified by: Midwife Maria Midstam
The third trimester is tough in many ways, not least when it comes to patience. Not knowing when you will meet your little one is very challenging! The truth is that we don't know why labor starts or exactly when, but there are some signs that indicate that labor is near. This is what you should look out for!
1. dwarfs
You may have experienced contractions earlier in your pregnancy. Contractions can be experienced differently from person to person, but are often described as a tension or slight pain which spreads from the top of the uterus downwards.
When the contractions become regular and more powerful the body enters the latent phase - the first stage of labor.
- Pre-eclampsia can be an early sign that labor is approaching.
- They usually feel stronger and more regular than contractions.
- Downward or backward pressure is common in this phase.
2. Traction bleeding
When the uterine septum starts to open, small blood vessels can burst. This leads to a small bleeding - a cartoon bleed which shows that the body is preparing.
If you notice bleeding, always contact the birth center to make sure everything looks good.
- Spotting shows that the uterine septum is beginning to open.
- The color can vary from pink to brownish red.
- Always contact the maternity ward if you see blood.
3. the slime plug
During pregnancy, a mucus plug protects the uterus from bacteria. When it comes loose, it often means that childbirth is approaching, although it may take up to a couple of weeks.
The slime plug looks like a tough, thick liquefaction - sometimes brown, pink or translucent.
If it goes in conjunction with labor, it is a clear sign that it is almost time.
You do not need to call the birth center solely because the mucus plug has broken.
- The mucus plug protects the uterus during pregnancy.
- When it comes off, it can be a sign that labor is approaching.
- You don't have to call the maternity unit just for this.
4. Water discharge
When the amniotic membranes rupture, you often notice water oozing out - or it comes as a sudden ”splash”.
If your water breaks, you should always contact the birth center. It is important to confirm that it is indeed amniotic fluid, as there may sometimes be urine leakage or copious discharge.
If you don't go into labor right away, you will usually have to go home and wait. In most cases, they will start within two days, otherwise commissioning (induction) become relevant.
- Water loss means that the amniotic membranes have ruptured.
- Always contact your obstetrician for a check-up.
- If you do not go into labor within two days, you may be induced.
5. The uterine flap opens
The uterine septum leads between the uterus and the vagina and gradually softens as labor approaches.
For the baby to be born, it needs open up about 10 centimeters.
During a buccal swab, the midwife will feel if the cone has softened and started to open. This can only be done if the teat is mature enough.
- The uterine septum softens and opens as labor approaches.
- Fully opened, it is about 10 centimeters.
- Mucosal swabbing is sometimes done to assess maturity.
6. toilet visits
Many people notice that they need to go to the toilet more often towards the end of their pregnancy. This is often because the baby pushes down in the pelvis to make room for the birth.
More and more frequent toilet visits can therefore be a signs that the body is preparing.
- More frequent toilet visits are common in late pregnancy.
- This is because the child is pushing downwards.
- The body is getting ready for childbirth.
7. the stomach sinks
When the stomach drops, it means that the baby has settled further down in the pelvis.
You may notice that it becomes easier to breathe, but that you feel more downward pressure.
This is often a clear sign that childbirth is approaching.
- When the stomach drops, the baby has settled lower in the pelvis.
- You may breathe easier but feel more downward pressure.
- It is often a sign that the time is near.
FAQ - Frequently asked questions
1. What are the most common signs that labor is near?
Pre-eclampsia, spotting, loosening of the mucus plug, water retention, opening of the uterine septum, frequent visits to the toilet and a sinking stomach.
2. What does cartoon bleeding mean?
A small amount of bleeding that shows that the uterine lining is beginning to open - a sign that the body is preparing.
3. Should I call the birth center if my water breaks?
Yes, always. You should come in to confirm that it is amniotic fluid.
4. What does the mucus plug look like?
As a tough, thick liquefaction - often brown, pink or translucent.
5. Is it normal to go to the toilet frequently in late pregnancy?
Yes, it can be a sign that the baby is pushing down and that labor is approaching.
