It is such an exciting time for a woman to experience labour pains. This is a sign your baby is finally coming to the world. Labour happens between 37 to 42 weeks of pregnancy. However, some women experience no signs of labour. Here are five crucial signs of labour every woman should know about:
1. Spontaneous Rupture of Membranes (SROM)
This is a common sign of labour in women. Most people call it breaking of the waters. It is the first sign that happens when the amniotic sac surrounding the baby breaks releasing the amniotic fluid. Usually, this fluid is clear or has a pink tinge.
2. Involuntary shivering
Trembling is also a sign of labour. This means your body is reacting to tension. Women usually start shivering in labour and when they have just given birth. This is a normal sign that shows a woman’s body is ready for letting the baby out. Women are advised to take a warm shower or massage or even do deep breathing.
3. Contractions
Contractions down there is a good sign of labour. Pregnant women in labour experience contractions that last for a minute. The contractions will last for 3-5 minutes. These contractions will become stronger and last longer.
4. Mucus plug
During pregnancy, the cervix is usually covered with a thick mucus plug. However, this mucus plug will break off when a woman is in labour. The plug will loosen to become watery which will be partially or wholly be discharged.
5. Lightening
During labour, the baby will drop and settle in the pelvis. A woman will be able to breathe more easily as the pressure on her diaphragm will be relieved. The pressure will now be subjected to the bladder in the pelvis area. This will make a woman make several trips to the bathroom to ease herself.