What Labor Signs Should You Watch For

Labor is the process of childbirth whereby the baby is pushed out of the mother's womb and into the world. It is divided into three stages: the shortening and opening of the cervix during the first stage, descent and birth of the baby during the second stage, and the delivery of the placenta during the third stage.

What are the signs of labor?

The first stage of labor can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. The main sign that labor has begun is when the cervix starts to open (dilate) and thin out (efface). This may happen gradually or quickly, and can vary from woman to woman. Other signs of labor include vaginal bleeding, an intense craving for water or carbohydrates, and a rise in body temperature.

The second stage of labor typically lasts around an hour. During this stage, the baby will start to descend into the uterus and the contractions will become stronger. The urge to push will also become stronger. Some of the signs that labor is in progress during the second stage include vaginal bleeding that has become heavier, a change in the color of the vaginal discharge, and a change in the rate or rhythm of the baby's heartbeat.

The third stage of labor usually lasts around 30 minutes to an hour. During this stage, the baby will be delivered. The placenta will also be delivered. Some of the signs that labor is in progress during the third stage include vaginal bleeding that has become continuous, a change in the color of the vaginal discharge, and a change in the rate or rhythm of the baby's heartbeat.

What should you do if you are in labor?

If you are in labor, the best thing to do is to stay as calm and relaxed as possible. Drink plenty of fluids and eat a light meal if you can. Avoid strenuous activity and stressful situations. If you feel like you are about to give birth, go to the hospital. If you don't feel like you are in labor, but you are concerned about the progress of your labor, try to take a walk or do some light stretching. Relax and wait for the signs that you are in labor. If you are not in labor, but you are uncomfortable or concerned about the progress of your labor, call your doctor or midwife. They can help you determine if you are in labor and give you advice on how to progress your labor.

Can it be something else than labor?

Can you mistake the signs of labor for something else? Yes, the signs of labor can also be the signs of a complication, such as preeclampsia or just be false labor. If you are not in labor and you are uncomfortable or concerned about the progress of your labor, call your doctor or midwife. They can help you determine if you are in labor and give you advice on how to progress your labor.

Don't wait too long to call your doctor if you are in doubt about the progress of your labor.