Your Delivery Experience

Signs of early labor include contractions that are becoming regular and increasing in intensity. If you feel contractions, a tightening of the uterus that feels like cramping or pressure, start to monitor the timing. Keep track of how long the tightness lasts as well as how much time is between each contraction. Count the time between contractions from the start of one to the start of the next.

If there is no pattern or they go away when you rest or start moving, it is likely false labor.

If regular contractions have lasted more than an hour and the tightness lasts 30 seconds or longer, it is likely that you are in labor. This stage of labor is the longest. It is best to stay home and stay comfortable until your contractions come every 3-5 minutes and last at least 45-60 seconds each.

If your water breaks that is a sign that baby will be coming soon, and you should go to the hospital.

If at any time you have questions about labor signs you can call the Women’s Health & Birth unit 24/7 to talk to one of our labor and delivery nurses, 218-999-1400.