Updated by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team — February 2026.
As your due date approaches, you may wonder how you will know when labor begins. While labor looks different for everyone, there are common signs that your body is preparing for delivery.
If you’re ever unsure that you are in labor, call your healthcare provider. They can help you decide what to do next.
Signs of early labor
Contractions
Contractions are one of the most common signs of labor. In early labor, they may feel like mild cramping, tightening in your abdomen, or lower back discomfort. They are often irregular at first.
As labor progresses, contractions become:
- Regular
- Stronger
- Longer
- Closer together
Many providers suggest coming to the hospital when contractions are about five minutes apart, last one minute each, and continue for at least one hour. This is sometimes called the “5-1-1 rule.” Your provider may give you different instructions based on your pregnancy.
True labor contractions are different from Braxton Hicks contractions, which can happen for weeks before labor. Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular and may improve with rest, hydration, or a change in position. True labor contractions become stronger over time and do not go away.
Pelvic pressure
A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis is a common early labor sign. As the baby’s head descends into the pelvis, many people will feel increased pelvic pressure that becomes more intense with contractions.
Your water breaks
Your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid inside a thin protective sac called the amniotic sac. When the sac breaks, fluid is released through the vagina. This may feel like a sudden gush or a steady trickle.
If your water breaks:
- Contact your healthcare provider right away.
- Note the color of the fluid. Clear or pale fluid is typical. Green or brown fluid should be reported immediately.
- Let your provider know if you develop a fever or notice a strong odor.
Your provider will tell you whether or not to come in for evaluation.
Bloody show
Bloody show is a small amount of pink, brown, or blood-tinged mucus. It can happen as the cervix softens and begins to open. You may also notice the release of the mucus plug.
Light spotting near the end of pregnancy can be normal. Heavy bleeding similar to a menstrual period is not normal. Call your provider right away or seek emergency medical care if this happens.
When to seek medical care
Call your provider if you think you are in labor. They may ask about your contraction pattern, whether your water has broken, and any bleeding or other symptoms. Based on what you describe, they will tell you whether to stay home or come in.
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Severe headache
- Vision changes
- Sudden swelling of your face or hands
- Upper abdominal pain
- Shortness of breath
- Decreased baby movement
- Contractions before 37 weeks of pregnancy
These symptoms may be signs of preterm labor or preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy condition involving high blood pressure.
A final note
Labor does not always follow a predictable pattern. Some people have several signs, and others notice only a few.
If you’re unsure, it is always okay to call your provider. They would rather hear from you and help you decide what to do than have you stay home feeling uncertain.
Progyny is here for you. If you have any questions, please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.