Labor Signs: When to Go to the Hospital?

Signs that labor is approaching: The baby dropping (breathing becomes easier, frequent urination increases), mucus plug dropping (pinkish or brownish jelly-like discharge), Braxton Hicks contractions, energy burst (nesting instinct), loose bowel movements. These can be harbingers that labor is near.

Braxton Hicks vs true contractions: Braxton Hicks are irregular, may stop with position changes, are generally painless, and felt in the front of the abdomen. True contractions come at regular intervals, increase in intensity, radiate to the back and lower back, and don't stop with position changes.

5-1-1 rule: If contractions come every 5 minutes, each lasting at least 1 minute, and this has continued for at least 1 hour, it may be time to go to the hospital. In these situations, we recommend heading out sooner: Water breaking, vaginal bleeding, noticeable decrease in baby's movements, or severe headache.

Water breaking: Amniotic fluid should be colorless and odorless. A greenish or brownish color may indicate the presence of meconium — contacting your doctor is important in this case. After water breaks, using a pad and going directly to the hospital is the safest approach.