Labour and Birth

Symptoms of labour can be varied. Below are some typical symptoms:

​Pre-labour

(To note - early labour is a normal part of the birth process.)
  • Contraction length varies, for example, lasting 20 seconds to 90 seconds 
  • Contractions are at irregular intervals, for example, every five to 15 minutes 
  • Although they may be painful, the strength of contractions remains the same or may lessen 
  • Contractions are often felt in the lower abdomen 
  • You may find that contractions are most uncomfortable when you are moving and lessen when you are resting  
  • The cervix usually remains closed 
  • There is usually no “show” (blood-tinged mucus) 

​True labour 

  • ​Contractions occur at more regular intervals, for example five to ten minutes apart
  • The length of contractions usually increases, for example lasting 30 to 60 seconds
  • The intensity of contractions gradually increases, becoming progressively more painful
  • Contractions can be felt in the abdomen, across the lower back, and sometimes in the thighs
  • Contractions do not decrease when you are resting but continue regardless of what you are doing
  • The cervix thins and shortens (effaces) and opens (dilates)
  • There may be “show” and/or leaking from your bag of waters
  • If you have questions, call your care provider or 811

​When to call your care provider  

‎If think you are in labour, or if your water sac has broken, call your care provider to discuss your situation. Together you will decide when you should call them next, when you should go to the hospital, or next steps. 

If you are not pre-registered at BC Women’s Hospital, please go to the closest hospital that delivers babies. 

If you experience the following, call your care provider immediately:
  • You feel constant abdominal pain that does not go away 
  • Your water sac is broken and you develop a fever (feel hot or shivery) 
  • The fluid from your water sac is coloured yellow, green or red 
  • You have bright red bleeding from your vagina 
  • Your baby’s movements have slowed down (less than six movements in a two-hour period) or stopped
​If you cannot reach your care provider and you are concerned about yourself or your baby, come to the hospital immediately or call 9-1-1. ​​