Early labour: how to cope at home and when to call

Early labour is often the longest part, and most people are advised to spend it at home. Here’s what it feels like, what can help, and when to pick up the phone.

What early labour feels like

Tommy’s describes contractions that start short and irregular, then slowly become more frequent, stronger and longer. Some people feel strong period-type pains, and others mainly get backache. You might lose your mucus plug (a ‘show’), and you may feel the urge to use the toilet. Progress can be uneven: contractions can seem to settle into a pattern, then slow down or stop for a while.

The NHS says this phase can last hours or days, and that you’ll likely be advised to stay at home. If you go to hospital too early, you may be sent back home.

What can help at home

Move around if you feel like it. Some people find a birth ball helpful.
Drink and eat. Sip fluids (the NHS says isotonic sports drinks may help) and eat if you feel hungry.
Warmth. A warm bath or shower can ease the ache.
Massage and company. A partner can massage your back, though you may find you don’t want to be touched.
Breathing and relaxation. Use techniques from antenatal classes. See pain relief in labour.
Paracetamol. The NHS says paracetamol is safe in labour when taken as the packet directs.
Distraction. Music, a podcast or a favourite programme can take your mind off the waiting. Some people use ASMR.

Getting ready to go in

Have your bag packed (see the hospital bag checklist) and a way of getting there. Keep your maternity unit’s number in your phone.

When to get help

The NHS says to call your midwife or maternity unit for guidance if you think you’re in labour, or if your contractions are coming every 5 minutes or more often. Call them straight away, day or night, if:

your waters break
you have vaginal bleeding
your baby is moving less than usual
you’re under 37 weeks and think you may be in labour
a contraction lasts longer than 2 minutes
you have 6 or more contractions in 10 minutes

If you can’t reach your midwife or maternity unit, call NHS 111 (where available). If you’re in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, use the number on your maternity notes first. Call 999 if you think your baby is coming now and you have a strong urge to push.

Tommy’s also says to call if the mucus plug comes out before 37 weeks, if you lose more blood than a streak in the mucus plug, or if you pass blood clots. Don’t feel you’re bothering anyone. If you’re worried, call.

Questions people ask

How do I know when to go to hospital?

The NHS says to call for guidance if you think you’re in labour or your contractions are coming every 5 minutes or more often. Tommy’s adds that they should be regular and strong enough that you feel you need pain relief. The midwife you speak to will help you decide.

Can I eat in early labour?

Yes. The NHS says you can eat if you feel hungry, and sip fluids.

What if my contractions stop?

Tommy’s says progress can be uneven and contractions may slow or stop for a while. Rest, drink and call your midwife if you’re unsure.

Can I take paracetamol?

The NHS says it is safe in labour when taken as the packet directs.