Signs that labour is near
- Lightening: the baby drops lower into the pelvis – breathing gets easier, but you need to urinate more.
- Show: the mucus plug that sealed the cervix comes away, often streaked with a little blood. Labour may follow within hours or days.
- Waters breaking: a gush or a steady trickle of clear fluid from the vagina.
- Regular contractions that get longer, stronger and closer together.
- Low back ache that comes and goes, loose stools, or a strong nesting urge.
True vs false labour
| Braxton Hicks (false) | True labour | |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern | Irregular | Regular, getting closer |
| Strength | Stays the same or fades | Gets steadily stronger |
| Effect of rest or walking | Often stops | Continues |
| Where you feel it | Front of abdomen | Starts in back, wraps to front |
When to go to hospital
A common guide for a first baby is the 5-1-1 rule: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting about 1 minute each, for 1 hour. If you’ve given birth before, or live far from the hospital, leave earlier. Always follow the instructions your own doctor gives you.
Go immediately if…
- Your waters break, especially if the fluid is green, brown or smelly
- You have vaginal bleeding
- Your baby is moving less than usual
- You have severe, constant abdominal pain
- You have a severe headache, blurred vision or fits
- You have contractions before 37 weeks
Call 108 for an ambulance or 102 for free pregnancy transport where available.
Hospital bag checklist
- MCP card, ID proof, insurance papers, all scan and test reports
- Loose nightwear that opens at the front for breastfeeding, dupatta or shawl
- Maternity pads, disposable underwear, nursing bra
- Baby clothes, cap, socks, mittens, soft cotton cloths and a swaddle
- Phone charger, water bottle, light snacks, toiletries
Frequently asked questions
How long does labour last?
For a first baby, active labour often lasts around 8–12 hours, but it can be shorter or much longer. Later labours are usually quicker.
What does it feel like when your waters break?
It can be a sudden gush or a slow trickle that you can’t control. If you’re not sure, put on a pad and call your doctor.
Medical disclaimer: The results and information on this page are estimates for general education only. They are not a diagnosis and do not replace advice from your gynaecologist, obstetrician or midwife. If you have pain, bleeding, reduced baby movements or feel unwell, contact your doctor or call 108 immediately. Read the full disclaimer.
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization. WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience (2016). who.int
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India. Maternal health guidelines, PMSMA and Anemia Mukt Bharat. nhm.gov.in
- NHS (UK). Pregnancy tests; Ovulation; Your pregnancy and baby guide. nhs.uk