Increasing Braxton-Hicks ContractionsĪlthough Braxton-Hicks contractions are commonly thought of as a sign of false labor, these intermittent, fluttering, usually painless sensations become more frequent and noticeable in the early stages of labor.

This in and of itself shouldn’t send you to the hospital, but it is a warning that the fun may be about to start. Lower Back PainĪlthough lower back pain could be a sign of many things, including the sheer act of lugging around extra weight all day, many people experience lower back pain and menstrual-like cramping in the early stages of labor. On the other hand, the baby can now increase pressure on her bladder, meaning more nighttime trips to the bathroom in the final days. This means that the baby has moved deeper down into the pelvis, relieving the pressure on the diaphragm that causes discomfort for so many pregnant people. This is actually the experience of the baby “dropping,” according to the American Pregnancy Association. A Feeling of LightnessĪfter nine months of carrying a bowling ball around in her stomach, your wife may feel the surprisingly pleasant sensation of lightness as childbirth draws near. You can help with both of these symptoms by offering her natural ginger chews to ease the stomach upset and a cup of ice chips to suck on as labor progresses. You can also expect that your wife may feel nauseous and thirsty as labor begins. Labor pains have a way of making the prospect of food less appealing. Baker, founder of Los Angeles Birth Partners, a certified childbirth educator and a doula who has delivered more than 1,000 babies. “The change in body temperature is caused by labor hormones,” says Cheryl K. If it’s a sultry, hot summer day and your partner is piling on the layers like you’re headed for the ski lodge, it could be an indication of labor.

But it’s always best to check with your doctor for advice. It’s good to know the difference between back labor and contractions and whether your new nausea, diarrhea, or lack of appetite could be signs your body is getting ready for labor.

The following 10 signs of labor apply to a vast majority of childbirths, but they may not represent yours. But human beings, pregnancies, and symptoms before labor begins can vary significantly. It would be great if there were hard and fast signs your body is getting ready for labor and how long you have to get to the hospital. The early signs of labor are different for everyone.

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