WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Pre-labor symptoms

Pre-labor symptoms
As your due date approaches, you may experience some pre-labor symptoms. These can include back pain, cramping, and an increase in Braxton Hicks contractions.

While it can be frustrating to not know exactly when labor will start, these symptoms are a sign that your body is getting ready for the big event.
Juliette Seblon
Midwife for 8+ years
Is it normal?
As you approach your due date, you may start to experience pre-labor symptoms. These are normal and can include things like Braxton Hicks contractions, back pain, and cramping.

These symptoms are a sign that your body is preparing for labor, and they can come and go as your due date approaches.
Prevent and care
As you approach your due date, it's important to be aware of and manage pre-labor symptoms, such as Braxton Hicks contractions and cervical changes, to avoid confusion and ensure a safe delivery.
  • Expect signs such as Braxton Hicks contractions, increased pelvic pressure, and changes in vaginal discharge. 
  • Learn about the differences between pre-labor symptoms and active labor. 
  • Consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns or experience significant discomfort.
Several theories explain the onset of labor, including the aging of the placenta, uterine distension, nerve impulses triggering oxytocin release, decreased progesterone levels, and the release of prostaglandin from the uterine wall.
Juliette, Midwife for 8+ years
When to consult?
If you're experiencing pre-labor symptoms that are new or different, it's a good idea to call your healthcare provider to check in.
Top Asked Questions
What are common pre-labor symptoms, and when do they typically occur during pregnancy?

Common symptoms may include Braxton Hicks contractions and increased pelvic pressure, and they can occur in the later stages of pregnancy.

How can I differentiate between pre-labor symptoms and actual labor contractions?

Understanding the timing, intensity, and regularity of contractions is essential in distinguishing pre-labor from active labor.

When should I contact my healthcare provider regarding pre-labor symptoms?

If you have concerns or experience significant discomfort, it's advisable to discuss them with your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.

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All I Need to Know
K
Kat
16 Oct 2023

Do you typically have labor symptoms for many days before active labor starts? Or can it come on in one day?? I’m 39 weeks and haven’t had many symptoms.. but I’m 2.5 cm dilated. #39weeks #laborsigns #anydaynow

1 comments
A
Adrianna.R
I was in labor for 2 days before I went into “active” labor with progressive dilation & all the good stuff. You will just know, wishing you a smooth labor & safe delivery.
27 Mar 2024

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G
Gaby
4 Sep 2023

For the mama’s that were already in pre-labor before getting induced, what was your experience like? I’m already 2 cm dilated and 50% effaced and my mucus plug already came out but I’ve been in pre-labor for a little over a week now and I’m thinking if I haven’t given birth by my due date, than to schedule an induction

2 comments
S
Shequita
Same here but my doctor actually will be breaking my water on Wednesday instead of sept 20 due to me being a C-section mom
27 Mar 2024

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H
Honeyy
10 Aug 2023

Can you ladies share what symptoms you had experienced right before you went into labor that was labor signs?

2 comments
A
Airiell
My contractions! I had no signs of labor with my first till the day he was supposed to be born(27th of January) They got really bad at midnight that night and I had him at 5:45 later in the day on the 28th of January! Never had any signs I wasn’t even dilating 🤦🏼‍♀️
27 Mar 2024

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C
Cassidy
4 Jul 2023

What symptoms did you have when you went into labor before you knew you were in labor? Or the symptoms building up to it

1 comments
L
Laysia
I was stuck on the toilet constantly peeing. But my water never broke i was just dilating.
27 Mar 2024

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V
Vanessa
22 May 2023

I am having intense pelvic/vagina pain and lower back pain. Any one know how I can relieve this pain? I don’t think it’s labor related since I have no other symptoms of labor.

4 comments
B
Blocked user
Hip opening stretches, warm baths, exercises.
27 Mar 2024

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K
Kadasia
Belly bands
27 Mar 2024

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D
Desirae
20 Feb 2023

does anyone know the earliest symptoms of labor ? i’ve been having really bad cervix pain & hip pain !

3 comments
A
Amber
I've been going thru the same
27 Mar 2024

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J
Jordyn
Tell your doctor
27 Mar 2024

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K
Kiera
6 Jan 2023

34 weeks & my belly is suppppppppppper tight and severe pressure between my lower belly and abdomen? Is this a sign of pre- labor or what it’s super tight

1 comments

C
Courtney629
3 Sep 2022

I'm at 31 weeks, been having multiple contractions an hour for a couple weeks. Went to the doctor after they brought me in for having 5 in an hour. Dr said water didn't break and no dilation yet. Last week was told I could have him at any time since he's been dropped. Anyone else having all the pre-labor symptoms but not there yet? Anyone told what it could be from?

7 comments
T
Tempp🫶🏽
Wat do yours feel like ? Where do u feel them ?
27 Mar 2024

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T
Tempp🫶🏽
I think I’ve been having loose stool . 😩 TMI
27 Mar 2024

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M
Mikayla
22 Jul 2022

Went into the doc today, bc of frequent contractions. And I'm in pre labor! Lil man will be here in a few hours to a day or 2!!

3 comments
A
Aniah
How far are you ?
27 Mar 2024

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B
Baee ❤️
Was gonna ask the same
27 Mar 2024

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A
Angelina
17 May 2022

33w3d: stomach dropped, Experiencing some pre labor symptoms nothing too serious yet

1 comments
T
Tirz
Oooo can u tell me all about the pre labor symptoms you are experiencing. This is so exciting! I dont think i have dropped yet. Too soon cuz im 31weeks
27 Mar 2024

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