Articles
Signs of labor: Know what to expect
Effacement: Thinning of the cervix
Dilation: Opening of the cervix
Increase in vaginal discharge
Nesting: Spurt of energy
Rupture of membranes: Your water breaks
Contractions: When labor pains begin
Content
Thinning of the cervix
Opening of the cervix
Increasing vaginal discharge
Feeling the baby has dropped lower
Water breaking
Contractions
Expect false alarms
Dilation: Opening of the cervix
Increase in vaginal discharge
Nesting: Spurt of energy
Rupture of membranes: Your water breaks
Contractions: When labor pains begin
Content
Thinning of the cervix
Opening of the cervix
Increasing vaginal discharge
Feeling the baby has dropped lower
Water breaking
Contractions
Expect false alarms
Increasing vaginal discharge
During pregnancy, a thick plug of mucus blocks the opening of the cervix to keep bacteria from entering the uterus. During the late third trimester, this plug might move into the vagina. As a result, you may notice an increase in vaginal discharge that's clear, pink or slightly bloody. This may happen several days before labor begins or at the start of labor.
If you have vaginal bleeding that is as heavy as a typical menstrual period, contact a member of your healthcare team right away. Heavy vaginal bleeding could be a sign of a problem.
