How Will I Know If I am In Labor?

Nesting or a spurt of energy is another sign of labor.  I'm not sure if it was panic or "nesting" but just days before going into labor I organized all the baby clothes and the baby's room.   Signs of nesting include sudden spurts of energy to clean and organize. Nesting may begin months before your due date, but may be the strongest just before delivery.

Rupture of membranes or water breaking is a well known sign that you may be in labor.  You may notice a gush or just a trickle. If this happens at home, call your doctor right away. Timing becomes very important if the amniotic sac is no longer intact. The longer the membranes are ruptured, the greater the risk of an infection. If labor does not begin on its own at this point, your doctor may need to induce labor. During this time be careful about introducing bacteria into your vagina. Sex is not a good idea if you are leaking amniotic fluid. 

Contractions are when labor pains begin.  How can you tell if the pains are true contractions?
• Are the contractions regular? Time your contractions from the beginning of one to the beginning of the next. Look for a regular pattern of contractions that get stronger and closer together. Real contractions are most likely those that come about every five minutes.
• How long do they last? Measure the length of each contraction by timing when it begins and when it ends. A true contraction last more than 30 seconds at first and gets progressively longer, up to 75 seconds, and stronger. If you are in a false labor, the contractions vary in length and intensity.
• Can you stop the contractions?  True contractions continue regardless of what you are doing, or which position you turn to. They often grow stronger with increased activity. In false labor, you may be able to stop the contractions by changing your activity or position, lying down or even taking a walk.
• When do you feel the contractions? True contractions tend to begin high in the abdomen, radiate throughout the abdomen and lower back. False labor pains are often concentrated in the lower abdomen.
Do not hesitate to call your doctor if you wonder whether or not you are in labor. If you experience symptoms of labor before 36 weeks and especially if the symptoms are accompanied by vaginal spotting, see your doctor for an exam. 

Source: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research

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