Signs and Symptoms of Labor

The start of labor is unpredictable.  Your "due date" is only a guideline.  Labor may occur as much as two weeks before your due date.  This is normal.  Early labor contractions work to soften, thin and dilate the cervix.  They may be regular or irregular, and mild to moderate in intensity and may last 30-45 seconds in duration.  You may experience these symptoms before labor starts:

• Two to three weeks before birth, your baby moves down into your pelvis. This is called "lightening"
• A thick mucus plug has developed at your cervix.  As your cervix softens and opens, you may notice a vaginal discharge.  Sometimes this is called a "showing."
• The fluid filled sac around your baby may break anytime before or during labor. You may feel wet and are unsure if your membranes have broken, it is very important that you be checked immediately.  Call your provider or simply go to labor and delivery at the hospital.

If you are experiencing early labor contractions, it is important not to get overtired. Your contractions may wake you up at night, but try to doze between them.  A warm bath or shower is an excellent way to help you relax, but if your water breaks, don't soak in the tub.  If the contractions occur in the daytime, balance rest with light activity to encourage labor.  Also, you need to eat regularly.  Your body won't work without fuel.  Small meals, more often, are best.  Eat light and avoid heavy, greasy or spicy foods.  You will need fluids so drink an 8 ounce of fluid every hour or two while you are awake.

Call your provider or go to Labor and Delivery at American Fork Hospital or Timpanogos Regional Hospital, if you have one or more of the following:

• Strong, regular contractions that come every 5 minutes and last 45-60 seconds.
• If your bag of water breaks, or if you feel wet and are unsure if your membranes have broken, go to the hospital to get checked, even if you are not contracting.
• If you start to bleed bright red blood, enough to saturate a sanitary pad.  (A small amoung of blood-tinged mucus, known as a mucus plug, is normal).
• If you notice that the baby is moving less than usual, drink a large glass of juice.  Then lie down in a quiet place with no distractions, and count every
• movement the baby makes.  You should feel 6-10 movements an hour.  If you don't, contact your provider.