Ask the Expert Series: How to Identify Signs of Labour?

You want to be looking out for when contractions become regular, frequent, and increasingly intense. Active labor contractions are typically about 4-5 minutes apart, last around 45-60 seconds, and continue to occur consistently. Once in the hospital, a healthcare professional would do a per vaginal examination to asses for the progression of cervical dilatation. Some other tell tale signs would include: a) The presence of bloody show (a pink, brown, or blood-tinged mucus discharge) b) Your water bag breaking. This is a clear sign that you should head to the hospital, as it may indicate that labor is imminent. Even if contractions have not yet started, the risk of infection increases when the water bag has ruptured. (2/2)