Signs of Labour: When to Go to the Hospital

As your due date approaches, it’s natural to wonder how you’ll know when labour has started and when it’s time to head to the hospital. While every labour experience is unique, understanding the early signs of labour and knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared. Dr. Basu provides guidance to ensure you recognise the right time to seek medical care, so you feel supported every step of the way.

Early Signs of Labour

Labour doesn’t always start suddenly—your body usually gives signals that birth is near. These may include:

• The baby becomes engaged: Your baby “drops” lower into the pelvis, relieving pressure on your ribs but increasing pelvic discomfort.
• Increased Braxton Hicks contractions: These mild, irregular contractions can become stronger as labour nears.
• Passage of the mucous plug: A mucus discharge, sometimes tinged with blood, indicating that the cervix is preparing for labour.
• Lower back pain and cramps: Some women experience dull, persistent lower back pain, similar to period cramps.

These early signs can last for hours or even days before active labour begins.

Key Signs of Labour Starting

1. Regular, Strong Contractions

• Unlike Braxton Hicks, true labour contractions become stronger, longer, and more frequent.
• A good rule of thumb is the “4-1-1 rule” – contractions that are 4 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute each, for 1 hour may indicate it’s time to head to the hospital.

2. Your Water Breaks

• This is when the amniotic sac ruptures, releasing fluid. It can be a sudden gush or a slow trickle.
• Labour usually follows soon after, but if contractions don’t start within 24 hours, medical intervention may be needed.

3. Increased Pelvic Pressure

• As your baby moves lower, you may feel pressure in your pelvis and rectum.
• If it feels like you need to push, get to the hospital immediately.

When to go to the Hospital

It’s time to go to the hospital if you experience:

• Regular, painful contractions that don’t ease with rest.
• Your water breaks (especially if fluid is green or foul-smelling).
• Heavy bleeding or signs of distress (such as dizziness, severe pain, or reduced baby movements).
• Signs of advanced labour– if you feel an urgent need to push, call emergency services or go to the hospital immediately.

For high-risk pregnancies, it’s best to consult with your doctor early to determine when to come in.

What Happens When You Arrive at the Hospital?

Once at the hospital, you’ll be assessed to determine:

• Cervical dilation and labour progression.
• Baby’s position and heart rate.
• Whether you should stay or return home if in very early stages

Dr. Basu and her team are committed to supporting you through labour, ensuring you feel safe and informed at every stage.

Stay Prepared – Expert Care When You Need It

Recognising the signs and knowing when to seek care can help you feel calm and in control. If you have questions or concerns about your birth plan, Dr. Basu is here to guide you.

Book a consultation today to discuss your labour and delivery plan, so you feel ready for your big day.