Signs labor is starting can feel different for every mom, but some clues are almost universal.
A few weeks before my daughter Shriya was born, I remember waking up at 3 AM with the strangest backache. It wasn’t severe, but it was rhythmic. My husband joked, “Are we having this baby today?” I shrugged it off. Turns out, it was one of the first signs labor was starting.
In my clinic, I often hear questions like “How will I really know it’s labor?” or “What if I go to the hospital too early?” It’s completely normal to second-guess every cramp in those final weeks. But over time, I’ve learned to recognize some powerful, unmistakable signs labor is truly beginning.
Let me walk you through them.
1. Regular Contractions That Get Stronger
Unlike Braxton Hicks (those mild practice tightenings), true labor contractions come at regular intervals, grow stronger, and don’t stop with rest. You’ll feel a wave-like tightening across your belly, often starting in the lower back and moving forward. This is one of the clearest signs labor is starting and progressing.
Tip: Time them. If they last about 60 seconds and come every 5 minutes for over an hour, it’s likely early labor.
2. Lower Back Pain That Doesn’t Go Away
Many women experience dull, persistent back pain in early labor. This can feel like menstrual cramps in your spine. It might be constant or come and go rhythmically. Again, it’s one of those underrated signs labor is starting that can sneak up on you.
I remember a patient who came in thinking she just “slept wrong”. She had her baby 7 hours later.
3. Bloody Show or Mucus Plug Release
As the cervix starts to open, it may release the mucus plug – a jelly-like discharge that may be tinged with blood. It’s a clear sign that labor is on its way, though birth may still be hours or even a couple of days away.
Note: It can be easy to miss, especially if you’re already having discharge. But if it’s thick and pinkish, pay attention. These little body changes are all signs labor is starting, even if it’s the slow build kind.
4. Loose Motions or Nausea
Your body might clear out your system before birth. This is a natural way to make space for the uterus to do its job. Loose stools or sudden nausea (even vomiting) can sometimes surprise moms who are otherwise feeling fine. Many of my patients ignore this as food poisoning, but actually, it’s one of the more physical signs labor is starting soon.
5. A Sudden Burst of Energy (or Fatigue)
Some moms report a surprising urge to clean, bake, or organise everything in sight. Others feel deeply tired. Both are hormonal shifts that may precede labor.
My story: The night before Shriya was born, I reorganised the entire baby drawer. At midnight. With a headlamp. Looking back, it was a sure sign labor was starting that I missed in the moment.
6. Water Breaking
This is the classic movie moment, but it only happens at the start for around 10–15% of women. The amniotic sac can leak slowly or gush dramatically. If the fluid is clear and odourless, it’s likely your waters. For many moms, this is the first of the signs labor is starting.
Call your doctor if this happens, even if contractions haven’t started yet.
7. Intuition That Something Has Shifted
This might sound vague, but I’ve seen it countless times. Moms just know. They’ll say, “Something feels different.” Maybe it’s a mix of signs or a gut feeling – but your body often whispers before it shouts. If your sixth sense says signs labor is starting, listen closely.
Here’s a quick reference to help:
| Sign | What it Feels Like | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Contractions | Rhythmic tightening | Time them |
| Back pain | Dull ache, rhythmic | Rest and monitor |
| Mucus plug | Jelly-like discharge | Inform your doctor |
| Loose stools | Frequent motions | Stay hydrated |
| Nesting urge | Energy spike | Use wisely! |
| Water break | Gush or leak | Call hospital |
| Intuition | Uneasy or excited | Listen to it |
For most women, signs labor is starting will show up subtly. You might notice one or two early labor symptoms at 38 weeks, then more progress within hours or days. The difference between true and false labor often lies in consistency and intensity.
When signs labor is starting feel consistent and strong, that’s your cue. If you’re unsure when to go to hospital for labor, here’s a good rule: Go if contractions are every 5 minutes, last 1 minute, and have continued for at least 1 hour. Or if your water breaks. Or if your gut tells you to.
Want more clarity on pregnancy beliefs? Check out Pregnancy Myths and Facts. It’s helped many new moms make informed, confident decisions.
You can also refer to expert advice from the Mayo Clinic on signs of labor to supplement your knowledge.
As a mom and a doctor, I’ve seen birth unfold in all its unpredictability. With my son Sreyansh, labor signs were textbook. With Shriya, they were all over the place. The common thread? Listening to my body and trusting its rhythm. When signs labor is starting, your body already knows the way.
You’re entering a sacred moment. Breathe. You’re ready.
You’ve got this.
FAQs About Signs Labor Is Starting
1. How do I know if I’m in real labor or false labor?
Real labor contractions come regularly, grow stronger over time, and don’t ease with rest. False labor (like Braxton Hicks) tends to fade if you lie down or hydrate.
2. Can labor start without contractions?
Yes, sometimes water breaking or a mucus plug release can be the first sign. But contractions usually follow soon after. Often, these are key signs labor is starting behind the scenes.
3. How long does early labor last?
Early labor can last a few hours to over a day. It’s the body’s way of easing into active labor, so patience is key! Spotting signs labor is starting can help manage your expectations.
4. What should I do if I think labor is starting at night?
Rest, time your contractions, and drink water. If signs intensify or your water breaks, call your doctor or head to the hospital.
5. Is it normal to feel emotional or anxious when labor starts?
Completely. Hormonal shifts, excitement, and a little fear are all natural. Deep breaths, a warm shower, or talking to a loved one can help ease the nerves. All part of how signs labor is starting can affect more than just your body.
Meet Dr. Sonia Iyer — a seasoned gynecologist, mom of two, and trusted voice for women navigating the beautiful chaos of pregnancy and early motherhood. With over 11 years of clinical experience and a deep understanding of real-life parenting, she brings clear, compassionate, and expert-backed advice to every blog she writes.
