What are the Signs, Symptoms & Stages of Labor?
Early symptoms and signs of labor include: • Baby drops or engages into pelvis (known as lightening) • Abdomen looks lower and more protruding • Menstrual-like cramps • Backache • Diarrhea or flu -like symptoms • Braxton-Hicks contractions (false contractions) during the last week of pregnancy • Frequent urinating • Frequent bowel movements within 48 hours of labor • Indigestion, nausea or vomiting a day or two before labor begins • Sudden burst of energy 48 hours before labor starts • Increased vaginal discharge • Small blood-stained discharge • Contractions • Water breaks Close
