When do you know that you’re in labour?

This is our Guest blog from Ex Midwife, Katy.

First of all, it is important to state that EVERY woman is different. In fact, every pregnancy is different.

You know the saying “How long is a bit of string?”, well, labour is a bit like that. We can’t put a definite time, any definite signs or any “this WILL happen” on labour and birth. So here is some information that will help you with recognising if your labour has started.

Signs of early labour from 37 weeks onwards.

-Your bump drops. Sometimes you can visually see your bump lowering.

-Back pain. Lower back pain is common, however if it is constant then it is important to let your Midwife know.

-Diarrhea. With all the movement going on and baby getting into position. Loose bowel movement or Diarrhea is a common sign that things are moving and labour could be starting.

-Mucous plug coming away. Your mucous plug looks like snot. It can sometimes come away as one big clump, or gradually.

What is early labour/latent phase?

-Your body getting ready to get into established labour.

-Your Cervix preparing for dilation

-Irregular contractions. Getting more and more tightening around you bump with no pattern or rhythm to them.

-If you are in doubt about being in labour, it is likely to be the latent phase.

What should you do?

-Distract yourself by walking, watching TV even try to nap when you can.

-Use a birthing ball (There’s a reel on my Instagram showing great positions you can get into).

-Stay hydrated.

-Make sure you keep your bladder empty.

-Eat regularly. Little and often is best.

-Assist yourself to be relaxed. Have a bath, listen to relaxation scripts, visualisation and breathing techniques.

-Pain relief options paracetamol, TENS machine, bath, shower and relaxation techniques.

-Put a pad on so that if/when your waters break you can see what colour it is. This is something that the Midwife will ask when you contact them. Don’t put a pad on that has coloured design on it as this can change the look of the colour of your waters.

What is the first stage of labour/established labour.

-When your cervix is between 4 and 10cm

-You are experiencing regular and powerful contractions in a regular pattern.

-Ideally 3 contractions within 10 minutes

What should you do?

-Call the Midwife/unit you are planning to give birth.

-Record your contractions. You can do this with simply using pen and paper, or there are plenty apps out there. Record how many contractions you are having in a 10minute window and how long they are lasting for.

-Keep a pad in so you can see the colour if your water break.

-RELAX! Easier said than done? The truth is, your body NEEDS to be relaxed to release the right hormones.

-Remain upright and active.

-Breathing techniques. These can be learnt through a good Antenatal education.

-Eat and drink unless advised otherwise.

-STAY IN CONTROL, YOU’VE GOT THIS!