Common Labor Symptoms

Labor symptoms are different for each woman, and a lot will depend on how the baby is carried throughout the pregnancy. A woman who has already had one child will most likely experience different labor symptoms for the second child. For some, labor may be short, but for others, it may be several hours or even days.

First Signs of Labor
Early labor symptoms can begin anywhere from several weeks to just a few days before actual labor. Initially, a mother's nesting instinct will set in; you may have a sudden boost of energy, making you go through a wild spell of organizing, decorating and cleaning.

Another symptom is Braxton Hicks contractions. These contractions are typically present throughout the entire pregnancy, but they become more intense as labor nears. Braxton Hicks contractions will generally subside if you empty your bladder, drink a glass of water and lie down. Early Braxton Hicks contractions should subside in 10 to 15 minutes.

Nearing Labor
As you get closer to actual labor, the baby will drop. When the baby drops, it descends lower into the pelvis. If you were already carrying low, you may not notice this. Dropping, or lighting as it is sometimes called, removes pressure from your diaphragm but puts more pressure on your pelvis. This may result in swelling in the legs and feet, frequent urination and constipation.

Dilation is something your doctor will look for. Dilation can take place up to several weeks before labor, and does not guarantee that labor will start soon. Dilation sometimes waits, only occurring several days before labor.

As the cervix continues to dilate, the mucus plug may be passed. This may happen in a clump or over several days. It may be brown, pink or red. If this happens before 37 weeks, or is consistently bright red, contact your doctor.

The Onset of Labor
When the amniotic sac ruptures, most women are already at the hospital. Depending on the mother's position and the position of the baby, it may be a gush or it may be a slow, steady trickle. If your water breaks before you get to the hospital, take note of the color. Amniotic fluid is normally clear and does not have an odor. Sometimes, it may be tinged with blood.

Labor actually begins when you start having contractions. Sometimes, contractions may be very strong Braxton Hicks contractions. In most cases, the doctor will send you home, as that is false labor. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, real contractions do not subside when you change position, and are accompanied by radiating pain, including pain in the lower back.