What triggers labour?
No one knows exactly what starts the labour process. However, we do know that certain hormones, such as oxytocin and prostaglandins, cause uterine contractions and the thinning of the cervix. Hormones from the baby also trigger labour by stimulating the mother’s hormone production. False labour: Sometimes, knowing when labour has begun is difficult. You may be admitted to the hospital and then sent home if your labour does not progress that is, if your cervix does not efface (thin out) or dilate. This is called false labour. True labour: The beginning of labour is defined as the beginning of opening and thinning of the cervix caused by regular uterine contractions. There are some general signs when a woman’s body is preparing for labour: * Passage of a small amount of blood-tinged mucus from the vagina, called “show” or “the mucus plug”. This may occur a day to a few days before labour begins. The two signs that indicate that labour has begun are: * Regular, strong contractions that la
