Am I ready to give birth? Signs of labor checklist
Article
Oct 23, 2020
5 mins
You probably think it’ll be obvious when you go into labor, but it isn’t always what you see in the movies. Here are a few signs of labor to look out for.
- Regular contractions or tightening’s. They might feel like really intense period pains.
- Backache—contractions don’t just happen in the bump area.
- Mucus or jelly-like stuff in your panties—this is called a “show”.
- A sudden urge to use the restroom. This is caused by the baby’s head pressing down on your bowel.
- Your waters breaking. This might not happen before labor. But if it does call the hospital ASAP.
- Call the hospital ASAP if you’re unsure or worried about anything. For example, if you’re bleeding or your baby is moving less than usual.
- Don’t forget to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go! See our checklist of essentials to include.[https://www.babyandme.nestle.co.za/prenatal/hospital-bag-checklist]
