Labor typically lasts about 9 months and 10 days on average. It usually occurs between 37 and 42 weeks. However, this period varies in each pregnancy. Pregnancy ends with the birth of the baby. Various signs occur during pregnancy.

What Are the Signs of Approaching Labor?

Changes in a woman’s body before labor can be observed as early as 2-3 weeks before labor or as close as one hour before labor begins.

• Lightening and Engagement

Especially in first-time mothers, the baby drops into the pelvis 2-4 weeks before labor begins. The mother feels this change. In subsequent births, this change may not be felt. The downward movement increases pressure on the pelvic area and the rectum.

• Weight Loss or Stoppage of Weight Gain:

Weight gain usually stops or slows down in the last month of pregnancy. Some mothers may even lose weight as labor approaches.

• Changes in Energy Levels:

In the last month of pregnancy, some mothers feel much more tired, while others may experience increased energy depending on their hormone levels.

• Bloody or Pink Show (Discharge):

During pregnancy, a thick mucus plug seals the cervix to prevent bacteria from entering the uterus. As labor approaches, the cervix thins and tiny blood vessels may break, causing pink or bloody discharge. This mucus plug may come out before labor begins.

The appearance of the mucus plug indicates that labor is near but does not guarantee immediate labor. Labor may begin 2-3 days after the plug or even several weeks later. Therefore, after the mucus plug appears, it’s important to wait for regular contractions or water breaking.

• Increase in Braxton Hicks Contractions:

After the 30th week of pregnancy, false contractions called Braxton Hicks begin. These contractions help the uterus practice for real labor contractions. They are usually painless but can be uncomfortable for some. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, unlike real labor contractions, which are regular and increase in intensity.

• How to Differentiate Real Labor Contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and ease with rest, hydration, warm showers, breathing exercises, and changing positions. Real labor contractions do not go away with these measures and become more frequent and regular. When contractions occur every five minutes regularly, contact your midwife and prepare to go to the hospital.

• Increased Vaginal Discharge

As labor approaches, vaginal discharge increases, usually white, sometimes mucus-like and odorless.

• Diarrhea:

Hormonal changes near labor cause the stool to soften, and sometimes diarrhea occurs.

• Frequent Urination:

As the baby’s head moves down into the birth canal, pressure on the bladder increases, causing frequent urination.

• Eased Breathing:

As the baby’s head drops, pressure on the lungs decreases, making breathing easier.