As you prepare to give birth to the little one you’ve been growing over the last nine months, it’s normal to have questions and concerns about what’s happening in your body.
This article will look at everyday experiences and symptoms you’ll likely experience at this late stage of your pregnancy, focusing on your baby’s movements.
We’ll cover the kind of movement you can expect, how much is too much or not enough, and other late-stage pregnancy symptoms you may be experiencing.
We’ll also take a deep dive into the signs of labor so you’ll be physically and mentally ready when the time comes.
What to know about the increased baby movement before labor
Feeling your baby moving more before labor is a common occurrence, and it can be a sign that your baby is getting ready for delivery.
Here are some things to know:
1. It’s normal
As your due date approaches, your baby will naturally become more active. The baby is running out of room to move around in your uterus.
As the space in the uterus becomes more limited, the baby’s movements may become more frequent and intense. This is a normal part of the baby’s development and is nothing to be concerned about.
2. It’s a sign of a healthy baby
Increased movement is generally a sign that your baby is healthy and growing properly. Suppose your baby is not moving enough or less than usual. In that case, it can be a sign of a problem, and you should immediately contact your healthcare provider about decreased fetal movement.
There may be nothing to worry about, but increased fetal movement is the norm as you approach labor.
3. It can be a sign that labor is near
Sometimes, a very active baby can signify that labor is approaching.
This is because your baby is getting into position for delivery.
As the baby moves down into the pelvis, known as ‘dropping’ or ‘lightening,’ it may put more pressure on your bladder, causing you to feel the need to urinate more frequently. You may also feel more pressure in your lower back or pelvis.
4. It’s not always a reliable predictor
While increased fetal movement can indicate that labor is near, it’s not always a reliable predictor.
Some women experience increased fetal movement for weeks before labor, while others experience no increase at all. The timing and intensity of fetal movement can vary significantly from one pregnancy to another and even from one day to the next.
5. Other signs to look for
Along with increased fetal movement, there are other signs to look for that may indicate that labor is near. Braxton Hicks contractions, which in the later stages of pregnancy are sometimes called “practice contractions,” are a common sign of impending labor.
These contractions feel like a tightening or squeezing sensation in your abdomen but are usually not painful.
You may also notice a “bloody show,” a discharge of mucus and blood from the cervix. This can signify that your cervix is starting to dilate and efface (thin out).
Finally, the rupture of the amniotic sac (your water breaking) is another sign that labor is beginning.
Want to know more about the signs of labor? We’ll look further at other common signs in the article’s next section!
6. Talk to your healthcare provider
If you’re experiencing increased fetal movement and are unsure if it’s a sign of impending labor, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you determine if you’re experiencing preterm labor or if everything is progressing normally.
They may also want to do an ultrasound or other tests to check your baby’s well-being. If you’re experiencing other signs of labor, such as contractions or a bloody show, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
What are the signs of labor?
The signs of labor can vary from woman to woman and even from one pregnancy to another.
However, here are some common signs of labor to look out for:
- Contractions: Contractions are the most common sign of labor. They may start feeling like mild menstrual cramps and become stronger and more regular over time. True labor contractions usually come at regular intervals and increase in intensity over time. They may also cause discomfort or pain in your lower abdomen, back, or pelvic area.
- Water breaking: Your water breaking, or the rupture of the amniotic sac, is another common sign of labor. This can happen as a sudden gush of fluid or a slow trickle. If you suspect your water has broken, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
- Bloody show: A “bloody show” is a discharge of mucus (lost mucus plug) and blood from the cervix. This can signify that your cervix is starting to dilate and efface (thin out). You may notice this discharge on your underwear or when you wipe after using the bathroom.
- Increased vaginal discharge: As your body prepares for labor, you may notice an increase in vaginal discharge. This discharge may be thicker and pink or brown.
- Pelvic pressure: As your baby moves closer to the birth canal in preparation for birth, you may feel an increased pressure in your pelvic area. You may also feel more pressure on your bladder, which may cause you to feel like you need to urinate more frequently.
- Back pain: Some women experience back pain or pressure before labor begins. This may be caused by the baby’s position in the pelvis or the pressure of the baby’s head on the lower back.
If you experience any of these signs of labor, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can help you determine if you’re in labor and advise you on the next steps to take.
FAQs about labor
Here are some frequently asked questions about labor:
When does labor usually start?
Labor can start at any time after 37 weeks of pregnancy. However, most women labor between 38 and 42 weeks of pregnancy.
How do I know if I’m in labor?
The most common sign of labor is contractions. True labor contractions usually come at regular intervals and increase in intensity over time.
You may also experience other signs of labor, such as your water breaking, a bloody show, increased vaginal discharge, pelvic pressure, or back pain.
Is increased fetal movement a sign of labor?
Fetal movement can vary throughout the day and can be influenced by several factors, such as the baby’s position and activity level, as well as your activity level and diet.
However, some women may experience increased fetal movement in the days or hours leading up to labor. This may be due to the baby’s increased activity as they prepare to move down into the birth canal.
If you notice a sudden increase in fetal movement or a change in the pattern of movement, you should contact your healthcare provider to rule out any potential issues.
What should I do if I think I’m in labor?
If you think you’re in labor, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can help you determine if you’re in labor and advise you on the next steps to take.
What is the difference between true labor and false labor?
False labor contractions, also known as Braxton Hicks contractions, are irregular and usually do not increase in intensity or frequency.
True labor contractions come at regular intervals and increase in intensity over time.
How long does labor typically last?
Labor can last anywhere from a few hours to more than a day. The length of labor can vary depending on several factors, including the baby’s position, the strength of your contractions, and your body’s response to labor.
What pain relief options are available during labor?
Several pain relief options are available during labor, including epidural anesthesia, nitrous oxide, and IV medications. Your healthcare provider can help you determine which options are best for you.
Can I eat or drink during labor?
In most cases, it is safe to eat and drink during labor. However, your healthcare provider may recommend that you only have clear liquids or ice chips during the active stage of labor.
How can I prepare for labor?
You can prepare for labor by taking childbirth education classes, practicing relaxation techniques, and creating a birth plan. It’s also essential to stay healthy and active during pregnancy and to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
Do babies feel pain during childbirth?
It’s hard to know if unborn babies feel pain in the womb. Inside, they are protected by the amniotic fluid, but the amniotic sac breaks when labor begins, and they no longer have that protective fluid around them.
Are babies awake during childbirth?
It is unlikely that babies are fully awake during childbirth as they are generally in a state of reduced consciousness due to the high levels of stress hormones released during labor. The baby’s head is also typically compressed during birth, contributing to reduced consciousness.
However, some research suggests that babies may experience a state of heightened awareness during the actual moment of birth. This is known as the fetal ejection reflex, and it is thought to be a protective mechanism that helps the baby make a smooth transition from the womb to the outside world.
Should the baby’s movements slow down before labor?
It is common for a baby’s movements to change as they prepare for birth, but no set pattern applies to all pregnancies.
Some women may experience a decrease in fetal movement as their due date approaches, while others may continue to feel their baby move as actively as before.
The important thing to note is that you should still feel your baby moving regularly throughout your third trimester. If you notice a sudden decrease in fetal movement or your baby’s movement patterns change significantly, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately to rule out any potential issues.
Conclusion
Awareness of your baby’s movements and other signs of labor can help you feel more prepared and in control during the birthing process.
Increased fetal movements can be a normal part of pregnancy. Still, sudden changes or patterns should be discussed with your healthcare provider, such as excessive or reduced fetal movements.
Knowing the signs of labor, such as contractions, the breaking of waters, and bloody show, can help you prepare for what’s to come and ensure you get the care you need at the right time.
Remember, every pregnancy and labor experience is unique, so don’t hesitate to discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your healthcare provider.