Elara guides

How to know labour is starting

The real signs — and when to pick up the phone.

In the final weeks, every twinge raises the question: is this it? Labour usually announces itself gradually, with a handful of recognisable signs. Knowing them — and knowing when to call — means you can stay calm and act at the right moment.

Signs labour may be near or starting

• A “show” — the mucus plug coming away, sometimes pink-tinged.
• Regular contractions that get longer, stronger and closer together.
• Persistent lower-back ache or period-like cramping.
• Your waters breaking — a gush or a slow trickle of fluid.
• Some people get a burst of nesting energy, or loose stools, in the day or two before.

Early vs active labour

Early (latent) labour can last hours or even a day or two: irregular, manageable contractions while your cervix softens and starts to open. This is usually the time to rest, eat, and stay home if all is well. Active labour is when contractions become regular, strong and close — that's when things move and when you'll typically head in.

When to call

A common first-baby guide is 5-1-1: contractions five minutes apart, one minute long, for one hour. But call sooner — at any time — if your waters break, you have bright-red bleeding, your baby's movements change, you feel unwell, or you're simply unsure.

Before 37 weeks, any signs of labour need a call straight away — that's preterm and shouldn't be waited out. And your maternity unit's own “when to come in” advice always comes first.