The last weeks of pregnancy are exciting, emotional, and let’s be honest, a little nerve-wracking. Every cramp, twinge, or bathroom trip might leave you wondering: Am I in labour?
Understanding the signs of labour can help you feel more prepared (and a little less panicked). This guide walks you through the most common signs that labor is starting, how to tell real labor from false alarms, and what to do when the big moment arrives*.
1. Lightening: Baby Drops Lower
In the final weeks before labor, your baby may drop deeper into your pelvis - this is called lightening. You might notice:
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More pressure in your lower belly
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An easier time breathing (yay!)
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Increased trips to the bathroom (not so yay)
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Sudden pelvic nerve zaps (aka lightning crotch)
That sharp, shooting pain in your groin or inner thighs is caused by baby pressing on nerves - completely normal, but very uncomfortable.
Pro tip: This is a great time to wear your STRETCHSUIT Maternity Jumpsuit with Built-In Bra to allow a 360-degree comfort around your belly.
2. Increased Vaginal Discharge
As your cervix prepares for labor, you may notice:
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More vaginal discharge
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A thick, mucus-like texture
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Sometimes tinged with blood (known as the “bloody show”)
This is totally normal and a sign things are progressing.
3. Exhaustion or Sudden Fatigue
Even if you’ve had energy during your pregnancy, a sudden wave of exhaustion can hit just before labor starts. Your body is preparing for the marathon ahead - don’t ignore the signal to rest.
If you're nesting one day and wiped out the next, it could mean labor is near
4. Nesting Instinct
Suddenly feel the urge to clean your fridge at midnight? That’s nesting, and it’s real. Many women experience a burst of energy and a desire to get everything "just right" before the baby arrives.
5. Diarrhea or Upset Stomach
Hormonal shifts may cause digestive changes, including loose stools - in the hours or days leading up to labor.
6. Contractions That Get Stronger and Closer Together
Here’s a big one. Unlike Braxton Hicks (practice contractions), true labor contractions:
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Happen at regular intervals
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Get closer together over time
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Increase in intensity
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Don’t go away with rest or hydration
Use a contraction timer app to track them, and when they’re about 5 minutes apart, it’s probably time to call your midwife.
7. Back Pain
Many women feel a dull, persistent lower back pain that doesn’t ease up. This can be a sign that baby is in position and your body is getting ready to deliver.
8. Water Breaking
This classic sign only happens before labor in about 15% of women, but when it does, you’ll likely feel a gush or steady trickle of fluid.
Not sure if it’s urine or amniotic fluid? Call your doctor!
9. Cervical Dilation and Effacement
Your midwife may check for these at your appointments. Dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning) of the cervix mean your body is getting ready, but they don’t always mean labor is imminent.
10. Pelvic Pressure
As baby moves down, you may feel pressure on your hips, thighs, or even in your back passage. Some women say it feels like the baby is “about to fall out” - it’s totally normal, but intense.
11. A Sudden Sense of Calm or Focus
Many women report an almost meditative feeling shortly before labor begins, like your body knows what’s coming and is conserving energy.
12. Your Gut Knows
If you’ve been feeling “off” or different in a way that’s hard to describe, trust yourself. Many mum-to-be's say they just knew labor was starting - even before physical signs appeared.
What to Do When You Spot the Signs of Labor
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Time your contractions
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Call your healthcare provider
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Grab your hospital bag
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Breathe - you’ve got this
Conclusion: Every Birth is Unique
Labour looks different for everyone, and no two experiences are exactly alike. But knowing what signs to watch for can help you feel more confident as you head into one of life’s most powerful transitions.
STRETCHSUIT™ is with you every step of the way - from pregnancy comfort to postpartum recovery. Discover our maternity must-haves like the Adjustable Maternity Underwear Brief, Postpartum Waist Trainer, and High Compression Postpartum Shapewear, designed to support your body before and after birth.
Much love
Simone
*Disclaimer, please always seek help from a healthcare professional
