Signs of Labor

There are ways you can tell if you're really in labor or just having Braxton-Hicks contractions. You are probably in labor if:

• the cramps last longer and gets closer together
• the pains get stronger when you move
• you lose your mucous plug (bloody show)
• clear liquid is leaking or flowing out of your vagina (bag of water breaks)
• you have a lot of soft bowel movements
• the pain moves from your lower back to your abdomen

If you think you are in labor, begin timing your contractions. You should call your doctor or go to the hospital:

• if water bag breaks
• if contractions are 5-10 minutes apart for one hour
• if blood is coming out of the vagina
  

Subscribe to Journey To Motherhood by Email