Signs of labour: how to tell it’s starting and when to call

Every labour begins differently. Here are the signs that labour is starting, how they differ from practice contractions, and exactly when to call your midwife or maternity unit.

The main signs

A show

The NHS says a ‘show’ means the cervix is starting to open. The plug of mucus that has sat in the cervix during pregnancy may come away shortly before labour or early in it. A show can be streaked with blood. If you lose more than that, call your midwife or maternity unit.

Your waters breaking

Your waters often break during labour, but they can break earlier. The fluid may trickle or come in a gush, and it’s normally clear and pale. Use a period pad, not a tampon, so your midwife can check the colour of the waters. Tell your midwife straight away if the waters are smelly or coloured (for example green or brown), or if there is blood.

Contractions

The NHS says contractions tend to become longer, stronger and more frequent as labour progresses. Each one tightens the womb and then eases as it relaxes. Unlike Braxton Hicks, they don’t go away when you change position. See Braxton Hicks contractions.

When to call your midwife or maternity unit

The NHS says call for guidance if you think you’re in labour, or if you’re having regular contractions every 5 minutes or more often. You can also call if you’re unsure or worried. Call urgently, even at night, if:

your waters break
you have vaginal bleeding
your baby is moving less than usual. Don’t wait until the next day
your contractions last over 2 minutes, or you’re having 6 or more in 10 minutes
you’re under 37 weeks and think labour might be starting

If you can’t reach your midwife or maternity unit, call NHS 111. Call 999 if you think your baby is coming now and you feel a strong urge to push.

What to do while you wait

Keep your phone charged and your maternity notes close.
Check your hospital bag is packed.
Ask your birth partner to be ready. See the dad’s guide to being the ultimate birth partner.

Going past your due date

The NHS says only 1 in 20 babies arrive on their due date. If you go past it, see past your due date for what happens next.

Questions people ask

What do the early signs of labour feel like?

The NHS lists a show, your waters breaking and contractions that get longer, stronger and more frequent. Many people also notice period-type pains or a backache, though these can have other causes, so call if you’re unsure.

How do I know if my waters have broken?

Fluid may trickle or gush out and is normally clear and pale. Use a pad and call your maternity unit straight away, as they will want to check you.

What colour should my waters be?

Normally clear and pale. Tell your team straight away if the fluid smells, is coloured (for example green or brown), or if there is blood. The NHS says to tell your midwife straight away if the waters are smelly or coloured.

What if I think I’m in labour before 37 weeks?

Call your midwife or maternity unit urgently, day or night.