Signs that labour has started
How to tell true labour from practice contractions, and when to go to the facility.
- True labour contractions become regular, stronger and longer
- Waters breaking means you should go in, even without pain
- Any bleeding in labour needs immediate assessment
- If in doubt, go and be checked
Labour often starts gradually. Early signs include a bloody or mucus-like discharge (the "show"), low backache, loose stools, and irregular tightening.
True contractions become regular, get stronger, last longer and come closer together, and they do not stop when you change position or rest. Practice (Braxton Hicks) contractions are irregular, usually not painful, and settle with rest and fluids.
Go to your facility if contractions are regular and painful (for a first baby, about every 5 minutes for an hour), if your waters break, if there is any bleeding, if the pain is constant and severe, or if your baby's movements have reduced.
If you are not sure, it is always better to be checked. Take your record, ID and bag with you.
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Constant severe abdominal pain between contractions
- Waters that are green or brown
- No baby movements
- Fits, severe headache or blurred vision
These are emergencies. Go to the nearest hospital immediately — call an ambulance if you cannot travel safely.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.