Early Signs Of Labour
As your third and final trimester comes to a close, you’re probably waiting for a signal that labour is about to begin. Here are a couple of indicators that your little one will be making an appearance soon.
An Early Sign
The appearance of your abdomen may change as your baby moves down from under your ribs in preparation for birth. This process is called ‘lightening’ as you will experience a release of pressure on your diaphragm and an ability to breathe easier.
Your Waters
Your waters breaking feel different depending on the person, so it could be a trickle or a gush of clear or light pink fluid. The amniotic sac surrounding your baby rupturing is the cause here. Once your waters have broken, get to your hospital as soon as possible.
Contractions and Show
Your contractions might begin as a vague lower back or period type pain, but they soon occur at more regular and shorter intervals, and become more intense as they progress. The mucus plug that sealed your cervix will loosen and you might notice some bloody discharge. This is called the ‘show’, but you may miss it if you are using the toilet at the time.
Go Straight To The Hospital If...
● Your baby is moving at a reduced rate
● If the waters break
● If your waters break without any prior labour pains
● If the pressure starts to feel like you need to go to the toilet or push
● If you feel at all unwell or uncomfortable
Useful Links:
Maternity Pads - High level of absorbency
Birth Balls - The Miracle Box helps ensure an easier pregnancy and a shorter labour
Disposable Hospital Panties - Hospital panties ensures that the period of after birth bleeding is managed discretely and hygienically
Compression Stockings - Helps promote circulation and reduce swelling caused by water retention
Back to Labour and Birth Category