7 signs that childbirth is near

Verified by: Midwife Maria Midstam 

The third trimester is tough in many ways, not least when it comes to patience. Not knowing when you will meet your little one is very challenging! The truth is that we don't know why labor starts or exactly when, but there are some signs that indicate that labor is near. This is what you should look out for!

1. dwarfs

You may have experienced contractions earlier in your pregnancy. Contractions can be experienced differently from person to person, but are often described as a tension or slight pain which spreads from the top of the uterus downwards.

When the contractions become regular and more powerful the body enters the latent phase - the first stage of labor.

2. Traction bleeding

When the uterine septum starts to open, small blood vessels can burst. This leads to a small bleeding - a cartoon bleed which shows that the body is preparing.

If you notice bleeding, always contact the birth center to make sure everything looks good.

3. the slime plug

During pregnancy, a mucus plug protects the uterus from bacteria. When it comes loose, it often means that childbirth is approaching, although it may take up to a couple of weeks.

The slime plug looks like a tough, thick liquefaction - sometimes brown, pink or translucent.
If it goes in conjunction with labor, it is a clear sign that it is almost time.

You do not need to call the birth center solely because the mucus plug has broken.

4. Water discharge

When the amniotic membranes rupture, you often notice water oozing out - or it comes as a sudden ”splash”.

If your water breaks, you should always contact the birth center. It is important to confirm that it is indeed amniotic fluid, as there may sometimes be urine leakage or copious discharge.

If you don't go into labor right away, you will usually have to go home and wait. In most cases, they will start within two days, otherwise commissioning (induction) become relevant.

5. The uterine flap opens

The uterine septum leads between the uterus and the vagina and gradually softens as labor approaches.
For the baby to be born, it needs open up about 10 centimeters.

During a buccal swab, the midwife will feel if the cone has softened and started to open. This can only be done if the teat is mature enough.

6. toilet visits

Many people notice that they need to go to the toilet more often towards the end of their pregnancy. This is often because the baby pushes down in the pelvis to make room for the birth.

More and more frequent toilet visits can therefore be a signs that the body is preparing.

7. the stomach sinks

When the stomach drops, it means that the baby has settled further down in the pelvis.
You may notice that it becomes easier to breathe, but that you feel more downward pressure.

This is often a clear sign that childbirth is approaching.

Here you can listen to Baby Journey's Mini Talk podcast.