Skip to main content

Signs of going into labour

If you think you're in labour and you're not sure what to do, contact the maternity unit or your midwife about your symptoms.

Signs that labour has begun

There are several signs that labour has begun, including:

Contractions or tightenings

During a contraction, your womb tightens and then relaxes. For some people it may feel like extreme period pains.

If you put your hand on your abdomen, you'll feel it getting harder; when the muscles relax, the pain fades and you will feel the hardness ease.

As your labour progresses, contractions get longer, stronger and more frequent.

The "show"

You may see a sticky blob of mucus in your pants, which might be yellow or bloody - this is called the “show".

This plug used to seal up your cervix and when it comes undone, this can be one of the first signs of labour.

Labour may quickly follow or may take a few days. Sometimes there is no show.

Back pain

This is caused by your baby's head on your spine.

When their head meets your sacrum (tailbone) it can be quite uncomfortable.

Needing the toilet

This is caused by your baby's head pressing on your bladder or bowels.

You may find that you wee or poo yourself. It's very common, so don’t be embarrassed.

Your waters break

Don't expect a massive gush like you see in films – it could just be a little pop and a trickle.

The liquid should be clear. If it drips, then use a pad, not a tampon.

Contact your midwife or doctor immediately if it's smelly or coloured.

Find out what happens during labour and birth, and what you can do for pain relief in the early stages of labour.

When to call your midwife or maternity unit

Call your midwife or maternity unit for guidance if:

  • you think you’re in labour
  • you’re having regular contractions coming every 5 minutes or more often
  • you’re unsure or worried about anything

Call 111 if you’re unable to contact your midwife or maternity unit.

Call your midwife or maternity unit urgently if:

  • your waters break
  • you have vaginal bleeding
  • your baby is moving less than usual
  • you're less than 37 weeks pregnant and think you might be in labour
  • any of your contractions last longer than 2 minutes
  • you're having 6 or more contractions every 10 minutes

These signs mean you need to see a midwife or doctor. Do not wait until the next day – call immediately, even if it's the middle of the night.

Call 111 if you’re unable to contact your midwife or maternity unit.

Call 999 and ask for an ambulance if:

  • you think your baby is coming now and you have a strong urge to push

Tips for early labour

Try these tips to ease you through the early stage of labour:

  • sleep or rest when you need to, the more energy you have for your labour the better
  • if you feel like moving around, have a gentle walk outside or around the house
  • have a warm bath or shower – warm water can help ease the pain of contractions
  • practise your breathing techniques - deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth
  • keep up your energy levels up with healthy snacks

Above all, listen to your body and do what feels right for you.

Sign up for emails

Our emails include NHS trusted advice and support, tailored to your stage of pregnancy or baby's age.

Sign up for emails