Labor Symptoms
You have waited many months for the birth of your baby. This is perhaps the most exciting time in your life and we're here to celebrate the birth of your new baby with you. The early signs of labor are often confusing, so we hope the following suggestions will help you recognize labor.
Pre-Labor Signs:
Backache--these aches may come and go. This may occur for a few days before or along with other signs of labor.
Frequent soft bowel movements--this may be a sign of early labor.
Loss of mucus plug--your mucus plug may loosen and be released in late pregnancy as the cervix begins to thin (efface).
Menstrual-like cramps--these cramps may be intermittent or constant
Nesting urge--this is a sudden need to make your home ready for the baby.
Labor Signs:
Contractions--labor contractions are strong and regular (every 5-10 minutes for 1 hour) and are strong enough to keep you from walking or talking. These should only last 60-70 seconds. Time your contractions while you are resting, either seated or lying down and should be timed from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next.
Bloody show--this is a small amount of bleeding from the vagina.
Rupture of membranes--this might be a large gush or small leak that continues to trickle from the vagina.
If you have any of these signs, you should notify your physician or you may call our Labor & Delivery department at (918) 744-2506 and talk to one of our nurses.
Warning signs:
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Sharp abdominal pain that does not go away
Fever (over 100 degrees)
Smelly vaginal discharge
Painful urination
Bad headache
Excessive swelling
Baby moves less than usual
If you experience any of these symptoms, please call your physician immediately.
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