Labour Signs and Contractions: What You Need to Know
Learn what to expect during the Labour Signs and Contractions. Discover common symptoms, and essential tips to ensure a healthy pregnancy for you and your baby.

Written by Dr. Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025

Introduction
Pregnancy is an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking journey. The final stage—labour—is one of the most anticipated and important events. Knowing the signs of labour and understanding what contractions feel like can help you prepare for childbirth and provide clarity on when to head to the hospital or birthing centre.
What Are Labour Contractions?
Contractions are the tightening and relaxing of the muscles in the uterus. They play a crucial role in childbirth as they help the cervix to open and thin (efface) in preparation for delivery. During labour, contractions gradually increase in intensity, duration, and frequency until the baby is born.
Different types of contractions occur at various stages of labour:
Braxton Hicks Contractions (Practice Contractions)
Often referred to as “practice” contractions, Braxton Hicks can occur from the second trimester onward. These are generally irregular and may not be painful, but they can be uncomfortable. They are your body’s way of preparing for labour, but they do not cause any changes to the cervix. Typically, Braxton Hicks contractions are not a sign of labour, but they can be mistaken for early labour contractions.
Early Labour Contractions (Latent Phase)
These contractions are usually mild, irregular, and infrequent. During this phase, the cervix begins to soften, dilate (open), and efface, lasting for hours or even days. As early labour advances, frequency and intensity of contractions increase, signing that active labour may soon begin.
Active Labour Contractions
Active labour is marked by more frequent, longer, and stronger contractions. These contractions are usually 3-5 minutes apart and can last 45-60 seconds. During this stage, the cervix dilates more rapidly, typically from 4cm to 7cm. As these contractions intensify, you will likely need to focus on your breathing and comfort measures.
Transition Contractions
The transition phase is the final stage before pushing begins. Contractions are usually very strong, coming every 2-3 minutes and lasting around 60-90 seconds. This phase can be overwhelming because of it’s intensity, but it’s the final push before your baby is born.
Key Signs of Labour
While contractions are the hallmark of labour, there are other signs that your body is readying for childbirth. It’s essential to realise these signs so you can know when it’s time to head to the hospital or birthing centre.
1. Regular Contractions
Labour contractions are generally regular and they become stronger and more frequent with passing time. As mentioned earlier, contractions may be spaced far apart in early labour, but they will become more frequent as labour progresses. A key indicator that you are in active labour is when contractions come every 3-5 minutes, last about 45-60 seconds, and do not subside with movement or changing positions.
2. Water Breaking
The rupture of the membranes, often referred to as “water breaking,” is another key sign of labour. Sometimes, your water may break before you feel any contractions, while it may happen during labour for others. The amniotic sac that surrounds your baby will rupture, releasing fluid. It can come as a large gush or a slow trickle. If your water breaks, it’s essential to call your healthcare provider, especially if you’re not yet experiencing contractions.
3. Lower Back Pain
As the baby moves down the birth canal, many women encounter lower back pain also known as back labour. This can be a sign that the baby is positioned posteriorly (head facing the front), causing additional pressure on your back. Back pain often accompanies contractions and may worsen as labour progresses.
4. Cervical Changes
As labour approaches, the cervix begins to soften, thin (efface), and dilate. During your prenatal visits, your healthcare provider may perform a cervical check to monitor these changes. Effacement is the process of the cervix thinning out, while dilation is the opening of the cervix. By the time you reach 10cm of dilation, it’s time to start pushing!
5. Blood Show
A blood-tinged discharge, known as the "bloody show," can occur when the cervix begins to dilate. This is the release of the mucus plug that has sealed the cervix throughout your pregnancy. While it can be alarming, the blood show is typically normal and a sign that labour is imminent. If you notice heavy bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
6. Nausea and Vomiting
Many women experience nausea and vomiting in the early stages of labour. This is your body’s response to the intense hormonal changes and can occur in both the early and active stages of labour. It is usually temporary and subsides once you move further along.
7. Increased Pelvic Pressure
As the baby descends further into the birth canal, you may begin to feel increased pressure in your pelvic area. This sensation is normal and indicates that the baby is moving into position. It may also make you feel like you need to use the toilet more frequently.
How to Know When to Go to the Hospital
Recognising when to go to the hospital or birthing centre is essential. If you’re unsure whether you’re in labour or just experiencing Braxton Hicks, here are some guidelines to help you decide:
Contractions: If your contractions are consistently 3-5 minutes apart, last for 45-60 seconds, and increase in intensity, it’s likely time to head to your birth location.
Water Breaking: If your water breaks, even if you’re not having contractions, go to the hospital. If you experience a significant gush or leakage, call your provider.
Heavy Bleeding: If you experience heavy bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately, which could indicate complications.
Severe Pain or Discomfort: If you’re experiencing extreme pain or discomfort that you can no longer manage, seek medical assistance.
Consult Top Obstetrician-Gynecologists
Pain Management During Labour
Labour pain can vary from woman to woman and may involve cramping pressure and intense contractions. There are various pain management options available, including:
Breathing techniques and relaxation: Focusing on deep breathing and using relaxation techniques can help manage discomfort.
Water therapy: Warm water can soothe your muscles and provide comfort during contractions.
Epidurals or pain medications: If you’re looking for relief, talk to your provider about pain relief options such as epidurals or intravenous pain medications.
Supportive birthing partner: Having a partner, family member, or doula to offer emotional and physical support during labour can be invaluable.
Conclusion
Recognising the signs of labour and understanding what contractions feel like can alleviate much of the uncertainty surrounding childbirth. While it can be a challenging time, it’s also an exciting and empowering experience. Be sure to discuss your labour plan with your healthcare provider beforehand, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice when you feel uncertain. Each labour journey is unique, so trust your body and listen to its signals. Knowing the signs and what to expect can help you feel more in control and prepared, whether you have a long or quick labour.
Consult Top Obstetrician-Gynecologists
Consult Top Obstetrician-Gynecologists

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, DGO
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik

Dr. Veena H
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS DGO
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Asha Rani Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS DGO
Delhi
Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Mona Yadav
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Dombivli
Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli
Consult Top Obstetrician-Gynecologists

Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, DGO
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam

Dr Swatika Kumari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, DGO, DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Nashik
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Maharashtra, Nashik

Dr. Veena H
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS DGO
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Asha Rani Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
24 Years • MBBS DGO
Delhi
Dr Asha Rani Singh Clinic, Delhi
Dr. Mona Yadav
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS, MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Dombivli
Nulife multispeciality, Dombivli