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As your wife nears the end of pregnancy, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and nervous anticipation. One of the biggest questions couples have is: how will we know when labor is about to start? While every pregnancy is different, there are some common signs that indicate labor is approaching. Here's what to watch for:
1. Lightening (Baby Drops Lower)
This happens when the baby descends into the pelvis in preparation for birth. It may happen a few weeks or just hours before labor begins.
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She may feel like she can breathe more easily.
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Increased pressure in the pelvic region.
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More frequent trips to the bathroom due to bladder pressure.
2. Loss of the Mucus Plug
The mucus plug is a thick collection of mucus that seals the cervix during pregnancy.
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Losing it is a sign that the cervix is starting to dilate.
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It may look like a thick, jelly-like discharge, sometimes tinged with blood (also called the "bloody show").
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This can happen days or even hours before labor.
3. Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions
These are “practice” contractions that become more noticeable and frequent as labor approaches.
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They may become more intense and closer together.
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However, they usually stop with rest or hydration — unlike true labor contractions.
4. Water Breaking
This is a classic sign, but it doesn’t happen first for everyone.
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It can be a dramatic gush or a slow trickle of amniotic fluid.
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Once the water breaks, labor often begins soon after — but not always immediately.
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If it happens, contact your healthcare provider right away.
5. Real Labor Contractions
True labor contractions are different from Braxton Hicks.
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They become stronger, longer, and closer together over time.
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They do not go away with movement or rest.
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They typically start in the lower back and radiate toward the front.
6. Cervical Dilation and Effacement
This is measured by a doctor during an exam.
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Dilation is the opening of the cervix (from 0 to 10 cm).
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Effacement is the thinning of the cervix (from 0% to 100%).
Your wife's doctor may check for progress during a prenatal visit if she's full-term.
7. Nesting Instinct
Some women experience a burst of energy and the desire to clean, organize, or prepare.
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This surge of motivation often happens shortly before labor.
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It’s nature’s way of making sure everything is ready for the baby’s arrival.
8. Back Pain and Cramps
Persistent lower back pain or cramping (similar to period cramps) can indicate early labor.
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This discomfort may signal that the cervix is beginning to dilate.
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It’s especially common with “back labor,” when the baby’s head presses on the spine.
9. Diarrhea or Nausea
Hormonal changes in early labor can affect digestion.
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Loose stools or mild nausea can be a subtle sign that the body is getting ready for delivery.
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It’s the body’s natural way of “clearing out” before labor.
10. Feeling Emotional or Moody
In the final hours or days before labor, some women feel:
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Extra emotional, anxious, or introspective.
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Like something is “off” or different emotionally.
This emotional shift can accompany physical changes in preparation for birth.
When to Go to the Hospital or Birthing Center
Here’s a general guideline (but always follow your doctor’s advice):
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Contractions: Regular, painful contractions every 5 minutes for 1 hour (the 5-1-1 rule).
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Water breaking: Go immediately if the fluid is green, foul-smelling, or if she’s GBS positive.
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Bleeding: If there’s more than spotting, contact your provider right away.
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Reduced fetal movement: If the baby is moving less than usual, don’t wait — seek help.
Final Thoughts
Labor doesn’t always follow a script. Some women experience all of these signs, while others go from feeling fine to active labor quickly. Stay calm, keep the hospital bag ready, and stay in touch with your healthcare provider. When in doubt, it's always better to call and check.
You're almost there — get ready to meet your little one!
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