It's always the same scenario in movies. He's asleep, she gently touches him. "What's happening?" he mumbles. "It's time," she smiles at him.
He jumps out of bed, grabs the bag, and they speed off to the hospital like bank robbers. In reality, it's not always that straightforward, and many women find themselves debating when to go to the delivery room. They are afraid of going too early, even more afraid of giving birth in the car, and they wonder whether the contractions are real or just more Braxton Hicks.
Signs that indicate labor is approaching:
- Nesting: The urge to organize, arrange, clean, and gather energy is known as nesting. These unusual bursts of energy are used to prepare the "nest" for the arrival of the new baby.
- Lighting: The advanced part of the fetus descends into the pelvis, reducing pressure on the diaphragm and lungs. This can sometimes be observed as a noticeable lowering of the uterus.
- Frequent Urination: On one hand, the descent of the fetus into the pelvis eases breathing and pressure on the bladder, but on the other hand, it can lead to frequent and urgent trips to the restroom.
- Release of the Mucus Plug (SHOW): As labor approaches, the mucus plug in the cervix may be expelled, accompanied by blood. It is important to distinguish between a normal mucus plug and abnormal bleeding, which may indicate an issue. Typically, the mucus plug is released in a quantity sufficient to stain a sanitary pad. In contrast, unusual or heavy bleeding, which is more similar in quantity to a menstrual flow, should be addressed immediately by heading to the delivery room. This phenomenon is one of the signs that signal the onset of labor. The mucus plug can be expelled up to two weeks before labor begins.
Signs that require immediate preparation for a trip to the delivery room:
- Regular Contractions: Contractions that are becoming regular and frequent. Typically, they start in the lower back and then move towards the lower abdomen. As labor progresses, contractions become more frequent, occurring about every 3-5 minutes. These contractions do not subside with changes in position. When contractions are still relatively weak, you can continue with your regular activities or try to rest. Inform a family member who will be accompanying you during labor so they can prepare and arrive on time. When the contractions become frequent, happening approximately every 5-7 minutes, and their intensity increases, it is time to head to the delivery room.
- Water Breaking: During labor, the amniotic sac, which contains the amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus, may rupture. This event, often referred to as "water breaking," typically occurs when contractions are regular. However, in approximately 8-10% of cases, the rupture of the amniotic sac can happen before contractions commence, often in the early stages of labor. When the amniotic sac ruptures, amniotic fluid may flow out of the cervix. This can happen suddenly with a gush of fluid, leading to a noticeable sensation of wetness (some women may wonder whether this is indeed their waters breaking or if it is just urine), or with a significant, continuous flow of fluid, soaking your clothes and the floor beneath you. When your water breaks, head to the delivery room promptly.
