Is this labour? When to call your midwife

Nobody can tell you the exact moment labour will start, and early labour can feel confusing. Here is how the NHS describes it, and when to pick up the phone.

Signs labour may be starting

• Contractions or tightenings that get longer, stronger and more frequent
• A “show”: a sticky, jelly-like, pink plug of mucus from your cervix
• Backache or a heavy, aching feeling
• An urge to go to the toilet, as your baby’s head presses on your bowel
• Your waters breaking, as a slow trickle or a sudden gush

Practice tightenings, called Braxton Hicks, can feel uncomfortable but are usually painless, do not last long, are not regular and do not build up. Real contractions tend to get longer, stronger and closer together.

Call your midwife or maternity unit for advice if

• you think you are in labour
• your contractions are regular and coming every 5 minutes or more often
• you are unsure or worried about anything

Early (latent) labour can take hours or even days. You will probably be advised to stay at home for that time. Walking about, drinking fluids, a snack, a warm bath, breathing exercises and paracetamol (as directed on the pack) can all help.

If your waters break

• Waters should be clear and pale. If they are smelly, green or brown, or you are losing blood, call straight away.
• Use a pad, not a tampon, so your midwife can check the colour.
• Most people go into labour within 24 hours. If you do not, an induction is offered, because the small risk of infection for the baby rises.
• Take your temperature every 4 hours while awake, and tell your midwife if it is raised (usually above 37.5C).
• The NHS says a bath or shower is fine. Sex may raise the risk of infection.