Several signs indicate your girlfriend might be going into labour. Here's what to look for, based on available information:
Key Signs of Labour
| Sign | Description |
|---|---|
| Contractions | Regular or increasingly intense tightenings of the abdomen. |
| "Show" | The release of the mucus plug from the cervix. This can be a blob of mucus or a stringy discharge. |
| Backache | Persistent and sometimes intense back pain. |
Detailed Explanation of Labour Signs
Contractions
- What they feel like: Contractions feel like a tightening in the abdomen that comes and goes.
- Timing: Time the contractions from the start of one to the start of the next. As labour progresses, contractions become more frequent, longer, and stronger.
- When to contact your healthcare provider: Usually when contractions are regular, about 5 minutes apart, and lasting 60 seconds. However, follow the specific advice given by your healthcare provider.
The "Show" (Mucus Plug)
- What it is: The mucus plug is a collection of mucus that blocks the opening of the cervix during pregnancy.
- What it looks like: It can be clear, pinkish, or slightly bloody.
- When it happens: It can occur a few days before labour begins, or even during labour.
- Important note: Losing the mucus plug doesn't always mean labour is imminent, but it's a sign that the cervix is starting to change.
Backache
- What it feels like: A persistent ache in the lower back that may feel similar to menstrual cramps.
- How it differs from normal backache: This backache is often constant and doesn't ease up with changes in position.
Other Possible Signs
While the table above highlights the most common signs, other indicators might also suggest labour:
- Water breaking: A gush or trickle of amniotic fluid. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if this happens.
- Feeling of pressure in the pelvis: As the baby descends further into the pelvis.
- Nesting instinct: A sudden urge to clean and organize. (While not a physical sign, it's often associated with approaching labour).
It's crucial to remember that every woman's experience of labour is unique. If you're unsure, always contact your girlfriend's midwife or doctor for advice.
