Signs That Labor is Near: What to Look Out For

Posted by Midori Grino on June 01, 2024

Hey there, mama-to-be! If you’re reading this, you’re probably waddling around like a pro and counting down the days until you can see your feet again. Let's talk about the not-so-subtle signs that labor is about to crash your party. Buckle up, because it’s about to get real!

1. Lower Back Pain

Remember when lower back pain was from dancing in high heels all night? Yeah, those were the days. Now, it’s all about your tiny tenant dropping lower and turning your back into a battlefield. Think dull ache, sharp twinges, and the occasional wish for a new spine. Welcome to the last stretch!

An illustration of a pregnant mom nesting at home, cleaning and organizing, surrounded by cozy home elements, such as cleaning supplies, organized shelves, and a tidy environment.

2. Nesting Instinct

Suddenly, cleaning out the fridge at 3 AM seems like a totally normal thing to do. You're scrubbing floors, organizing closets, and contemplating color-coding your pantry. Congrats, you've been hit by the nesting bug. Just don’t forget to hydrate and take breaks, because nesting isn't an Olympic sport (though it feels like it).

3. Increasing Pressure in Pelvis and Rectum

Feeling like you need to poop 24/7? That’s because your baby is dropping lower into your pelvis, making things pretty crowded down there. It’s like they’re getting comfy on your bladder and rectum, making every step feel like a bad idea. Glamorous, isn’t it?

An illustration of a pregnant woman feeling pressure in her pelvis and lower abdomen, showing discomfort, with a simple background.

4. Baby Dropping Down into the Pelvis

They call this "lightening," but it feels more like someone stuffed a bowling ball into your pelvis. The good news? You might breathe a little easier. The bad news? Your bladder now has zero personal space. Enjoy your 1,000th trip to the bathroom today.

5. Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions

Your uterus is doing its best Rocky Balboa impression with these practice contractions. Braxton Hicks might make you think, “Is this it?” But nope, they’re just your body’s way of saying, “Not yet, but soon!” They come and go, so put your feet up and ride it out.

An illustration of a pregnant woman with digestive discomfort, symbolizing changes in bowel movements, with a simple background.

6. Looser Bowel Movements

Your body’s prepping for the big event by clearing everything out. Yep, those prostaglandins are multitasking – softening your cervix and speeding up your digestive system. Enjoy those extra bathroom trips (because you didn’t have enough already).

7. Water Breaks

Cue the dramatic scene: your water breaks, either with a big splash or a slow trickle. It’s like your body’s way of saying, “Let’s get this show on the road!” Grab a towel, call your healthcare provider, and get ready to meet your little one.

An illustration of a pad with light red marks on a bathroom counter, symbolizing the start of labor, with a simple background.

8. Bloody Show

The "bloody show" sounds like a horror movie but it’s just your mucus plug making an exit, with a bit of blood to keep things interesting. It’s a sign your cervix is getting ready to party. Labor could be hours or days away, so keep your phone handy.

Conclusion

There you have it, the not-so-glamorous signs that labor is near. It’s like a checklist from a weird game show where the prize is your adorable new baby. Keep in touch with your healthcare provider if anything feels off, and remember, this wild ride is almost over. Soon enough, you'll be snuggling your little one and all this craziness will be a hilarious story to tell. Hang in there, you’ve got this!