Early Signs of Labour: Is Something Starting?

Early Signs of Labour: Is Something Starting?

As your due date nears, your body begins dropping subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) hints that labour could be approaching. You might feel excited, nervous, or just plain curious about what’s happening. While these early signs don’t always mean labour is imminent, they are your body’s way of gearing up for the big event.

Here are some common early signs of labour that suggest things might be getting started:

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1. The Bloody Show

A thick, jelly-like discharge that’s pink or blood-tinged is called the bloody show—a sign your mucus plug is coming away as the cervix begins to soften and open.

What it means: Labour could start within hours or days. It’s a strong sign your body is preparing.

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2. Increased Vaginal Discharge

Even without blood, you might notice more discharge than usual—clear or milky white.

What it means: Your cervix is changing. This can happen days before labour or be part of early labour itself.

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3. A Sudden Burst of Energy (Nesting)

Out of nowhere, you might feel the urge to clean, organize, or prepare for baby—even if you’ve been exhausted for weeks.

What it means: This “nesting instinct” is common in the days or hours before labour begins.

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4. Loose Bowels or Diarrhoea

Many women experience an upset stomach or frequent bowel movements shortly before labour begins.

What it means: Your body may be clearing itself out to make way for baby. It’s driven by the same hormones that trigger contractions.

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5. Backache or Pelvic Pressure

A dull lower backache or pressure in your pelvis and hips might creep in, especially if baby has dropped.

What it means: Baby is engaging deeper into the pelvis. This can be uncomfortable but is often a sign of progression.

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6. Braxton Hicks Contractions

These practice tightenings are irregular, mild, and usually go away with movement or hydration.

What it means: Your uterus is getting ready. If they become more frequent or painful, it could be early labour.

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7. Early Contractions

These feel like period cramps or lower abdominal tightening that becomes increasingly regular and intense.

What it means: This may be the start of early labour, which can last for hours or even days before active labour begins.

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8. Waters Breaking

This might be a gush or a slow trickle of amniotic fluid. It’s usually clear or slightly pink.

What it means: Labour often starts soon after (within 24 hours for most). Contact your care provider immediately, especially if contractions haven’t started.

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9. Cervical Dilation: A Clue, Not a Clock

Your care provider may offer vaginal examinations in late pregnancy or during labour to check for cervical changes like dilation (how open the cervix is) and effacement (how thin it has become).

What it means: While cervical checks can show that your body is starting to prepare, they don’t predict when labour will start or how fast it will go. You could be 3 cm dilated for days—or go from 0 to baby in a few hours.

These checks are optional, and should always be done with your consent and comfort in mind. They can offer information, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle.

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10. Baby “Dropping” (Lightening)

You may feel like you can breathe more easily, but also notice more pressure in your bladder or pelvis—this means baby has moved down.

What it means: Labour isn’t necessarily starting right away, but your body is getting closer.

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11. Not Feeling Quite Right (Gut Instinct)

Some people report a strong instinct that something’s shifting—whether it’s feeling extra emotional, distracted, or just knowing baby is coming soon.

What it means: Always trust your gut. Intuition and body awareness can be powerful labour indicators.

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Annoyingly no single sign means labour has definitely started—but taken together, these symptoms are a pretty strong hint that your body is preparing for birth. If you’re noticing multiple signs, now’s a great time to rest, hydrate, and check your birth plan or bag.

And remember: If you’re unsure or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your midwife or care provider. You are not overreacting—you’re paying attention to your body.