6 Signs Labor Is Near

Labor rarely follows a perfect script. Some signs show up slowly and others appear all at once. You might also wonder if what you’re feeling is the real thing or a false start — and that’s completely normal. Franciscan Health OBGYNs across Indiana and Illinois understand these concerns and support families through each step.

At the start of pregnancy, prenatal appointments can help you feel supported, informed and reassured as your body begins to change.

Key Takeaways: Labor Signs

• Labor often starts with back pressure, pelvic pressure or cramps.
• Contractions grow stronger and closer together once labor becomes active.
• ACOG lists your water breaking, regular contractions and bloody showas key labor signs.
• Braxton Hicks contractions feel irregular and do not increase in strength.
• The 5-1-1 rule is a helpful way to gauge active labor: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. (Always confirm with your OBGYN.)
• Franciscan Health supportslabor and delivery careacross Indiana and Illinois.

How Do I Know I Am In Labor?

Labor often includes several signs that appear close together. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) explains that the main symptoms of labor are regular contractions, your water breaks and you experience a bloody show.

A contraction often feels like a wave that builds and peaks. Early contractions often feel mild or similar to menstrual cramps. They start far apart and eventually move closer together. This might feel like you have a tightening that stops you mid-sentence, or a deep pulling sensation low in your belly. Some women describe the early phase as “period cramps with purpose.”

• A sudden burst of energy or a sense that something shifts
• Dull back pressure that does not go away
• Loose stools
• Pelvic pressure that feels low and steady

If something feels different or you’re not sure, a quick call to your OBGYN team can give you answers. And if you want more guidance on what to expect throughout pregnancy and birth, explore our pregnancy and delivery services at Franciscan Health.

What Happens Right Before Labor Starts?

Your body often sends early signals hours or days before labor begins. These changes help your cervix soften and prepare for birth.

Common early signs of labor include:

• Lightening: This is when your baby settles deeper into your pelvis. You may feel more space in your chest and notice easier breaths, but you may also feel new pressure low in your belly or pelvis. Some people describe it as the baby “dropping.”
• Bloody show: A small amount of blood or mucus passes as the cervix opens
• Back pressure: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists said that back pressure often appears as the body prepares for labor and may show up before contractions form a stead pattern.

You may also notice mood shifts, trouble sleeping or a sense that your body feels “different.” These changes don’t confirm labor, but they often happen close to the start.

How Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Differ From Real Labor?

Braxton Hicks contractions are common in late pregnancy and often feel like a tight squeeze across your belly. They usually fade once you rest, drink water or change position.

Real contractions follow a clear pattern and grow stronger over time.

A quick guide:

When Should I Go To The Hospital?

ACOG explains that if you think you are in labor, or are not sure, it’s important to call your OBGYN office. You should head to the hospital if contractions follow a steady pattern or your water breaks.

The 5-1-1 rule can help you decide. Head to the hospital if your contractions:

• Come every 5 minutes
• Last 1 minute each
• Continue for 1 hour

  Still, every labor is different, so call your OBGYN for personalized guidance. Go to the hospital if you have any of these labor warning signs:

• Your water has broken and contractions have not started
• You are bleeding heavily from the vagina
• You have constant, severe pain with no relief between contractions
• You notice your baby is moving less often

What If My Water Breaks First?

Some people enter labor after the water breaks, while others enter labor a few hours later. If fluid leaks or gushes, note the color and smell. Clear fluid is common. Green or brown fluid requires an immediate evaluation.

Does Labor Always Follow A Predictable Timeline?

No. The first stage of labor can last hours, especially for first-time moms. Early labor often starts mildly and builds gradually before shifting into active labor. Active labor often includes stronger contractions and shorter breaks.

You may notice that early labor feels slow and steady, almost like your body is “warming up.” As labor becomes active, the sensations grow more intense, focused and rhythmic — a clear shift that tells you things are changing.

Support From Your Partner Or Birth Support Person

Your partner or support person plays a key role in helping you feel calm and confident. Encourage them to:

• Time contractions for you when they become distracting
• Help you breathe through intense moments
• Offer water, snacks or a warm compress
• Stay calm and reassuring — your emotions often mirror theirs

Along with your partner or support person, you may choose a midwife as your primary provider or invite a doula for extra encouragement during labor. Either option can help you feel more supported.

How Franciscan Health Supports You

Franciscan Health offers labor and delivery care across Indiana and Illinois. Our OBGYNs, midwives and nurses guide families with compassion and skill.

Our teams provide:

• Education and preparation
• Fetal monitoring
• Pain control options
• Personalized labor support
• Respect for birth plans and preferences

If you have questions about labor signs or want help preparing for birth, Franciscan Health OBGYNs are here to help.