Signs of Labor

Many changes happen in your body before labor begins.

You may have some of these signs before you go into labor:

• A small amount of light pink or brownish mucus from your vagina
• Your baby moves down into your pelvis
• You may feel less pressure on your stomach and more pressure on your bladder
• Diarrhea
• Cramps or mild contractions. These feel like when you get your period
• Lower back pain
• Your bag of water may break. You might have a gush or a trickle of fluid from your vagina (You can be in labor without breaking your water)

Call your clinic during office hours. After office hours, call 617.414.2000 or the number your provider gives you if:

• Your bag of water breaks. Call even if you do not have contractions.
• You have regular, painful contractions.
• You have bleeding from your vagina.
• Your baby is not moving as much as before.

• During the night, stay in bed and rest as much as you can.
• During the day, go for a walk or talk to friends.
• Drink plenty of water and eat meals and snacks at regular times.
• For pain relief, try a warm bath or shower massage or a hot water bottle.
• Ask for help from your partner, Birth Sister, or other support person.
• Call your provider before you come to the hospital.
• Leave valuables like jewelry at home.