Signs labor is near or here

"Is Baby Coming Soon? Let’s Talk About Alllll the Signs Labor Is Near (and Here!)"

If you're reading this while bouncing on a yoga ball with your hand on your belly and a snack in the other—hi, mama. You're in the right place. Whether you're googling "early signs of labor" for the hundredth time or just hit 37 weeks and suddenly realized this baby has to come out somehow, let’s walk through all the signs that birth is getting close.

Some of these signs are subtle little whispers, and others are like “HELLO, it’s go time!” So let’s break it all down so you’re not wondering if every twinge is the moment.

The “We’re Getting Warmer” Signs – Labor Is Near, But Not Quite Here Yet

These are the cues your body gives you when it’s getting ready for the big event—but you might still be days or even weeks away from meeting your baby.

1. Baby Drops (aka Lightening)

You might feel like you can breathe again. That’s because your baby’s heading south, settling lower into your pelvis. It could feel like a little relief for your lungs and a little extra pressure... down there. Totally normal. This can happen weeks before labor, especially for first-time moms.

2. Increased Bathroom Trips

Your bladder's being treated like a trampoline. Again. But this time, it’s baby’s head pressing down, not just pregnancy in general. You might also experience more frequent bowel movements (your body’s way of “clearing out” before the big day).

3. Back Pain or Cramps That Feel... Different

This isn’t your usual pregnancy soreness. You might feel a dull ache in your lower back or period-like cramps. It’s your body warming up for the real thing.

4. Nesting Energy Kicks In

Suddenly need to deep clean your baseboards at 11pm? Rearranging onesies by color? That wild burst of energy might be a primal “get ready” instinct. And no, it doesn’t mean you’re about to go into labor right now—but it’s a classic sign that things are progressing.

5. Losing the Mucus Plug

Okay, we know it sounds gross—but it’s just your cervix saying, “Let’s get this party started.” The mucus plug is exactly what it sounds like: a plug of mucus that’s protected your cervix. When it comes out (sometimes all at once, sometimes gradually), it can be clear, pink, or slightly bloody. This can happen days or even a couple of weeks before labor.

6. Your Cervix Is Changing

Only your provider can really confirm this during an exam, but dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning) are major signs your body is preparing for labor. Just remember: You can walk around 3cm dilated for weeks... or go from 0 to active labor in a blink.

The “Get Your Hospital Bag, Babe” Signs – Labor Is Starting

Now we’re talkin’. These are signs that your body isn’t just prepping anymore—it’s doing the thing.

1. Contractions Start Getting Consistent

Not Braxton Hicks (those warm-up tightenings that stop when you change positions). We’re talking contractions that are:

• Coming at regular intervals

• Getting longer, stronger, and closer together

• Not going away when you rest or drink water

Pro tip: Use the 5-1-1 rule. Contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute, for at least 1 hour. That’s your cue to call your provider (or hop in the car, depending on what they’ve advised!).

2. Your Water Breaks

Sometimes it’s a dramatic gush. Sometimes it’s a slow trickle. Either way, it usually means labor is imminent. But fun fact: your water doesn’t have to break before labor. Some women don’t experience it until they’re already pushing!

3. Bloody Show

Not as dramatic as it sounds, this is a bit of blood-tinged discharge—often following the loss of the mucus plug. It's another sign your cervix is getting ready and that labor could start soon (or already has).

The “Let’s Go, Baby” Signs – You’re in Active Labor

This is the main event. If you’re experiencing these things, you’re probably headed to (or already in) the hospital, birth center, or preparing for a home birth.

1. Contractions That Demand Your Attention

You can’t talk through them. You have to breathe through them. This is when you know labor isn’t just starting—it’s well on its way.

2. Pressure. Like, a Lot.

Some women describe it like they need to poop (yep, we’re going there), or like baby is pressing hard down into the birth canal. That’s your body saying it’s go time.

3. Your Instincts Say “This Is It”

Don’t underestimate the power of intuition. Your body is so wise. If you feel like something’s shifting, you’re probably right. Trust that.

Quick Note: Every Birth Story Is Different

Just like no two babies are the same, no two labors are identical. You might have every single one of these signs... or just a few. You might be in active labor and not even realize it (yes, really—it happens!). The best thing you can do is listen to your body, stay in touch with your provider, and try not to overanalyze every twinge. (Easier said than done, I know.)

And While You're Waiting...

Don’t forget to soak in this time. Take naps. Eat the snacks. Take a walk. Pack that hospital bag if you haven’t. And if you haven’t scheduled your birth/ newborn session yet—hi, I’m right here. 😉

I help tired, proud, overwhelmed, in-love parents freeze time during those fleeting newborn days. Whether your baby’s arriving tomorrow or in two weeks, it’s not too late to reach out and get on my calendar.

You focus on birthing that miracle—I’ll take care of capturing the magic once they’re here.