Deciding when to go to the hospital during labor can be uncertain for expectant parents. Understanding labor signs and knowing when to seek medical attention is part of childbirth preparation. This guide provides clear, practical information to navigate labor progression.
Differentiating Contractions
Not all contractions signal true labor. Many experience Braxton Hicks, or “practice contractions,” which prepare the uterus without causing cervical changes. These are typically irregular, infrequent, and non-rhythmic. They feel like a tightening sensation and usually do not increase in strength or frequency. Changing positions, walking, or drinking water can often make them subside.
In contrast, true labor contractions follow a consistent pattern, becoming progressively longer, stronger, and more frequent. They do not diminish with activity or position; walking might even intensify them. True labor contractions typically cause a dull ache in the abdomen and lower back, often spreading to the legs. Crucially, true labor contractions lead to cervical changes like thinning and opening, unlike Braxton Hicks.
Timing Your Contractions for Hospital Admission
Once true labor contractions begin, accurate timing is key for hospital admission. For first-time parents, the “5-1-1 rule” is a widely recognized guideline: go to the hospital when contractions are five minutes apart, each lasting one minute, for at least one hour. For those who have given birth before, providers might advise waiting until contractions are three to four minutes apart, due to potentially faster labor.
To time contractions, note the start of one and the start of the next for frequency. Duration is measured from start to complete subside. Contractions should consistently increase in intensity, feeling stronger and more demanding. This increasing intensity, along with regularity and duration, indicates labor is advancing and it’s time to contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital.
Urgent Scenarios Requiring Immediate Attention
While contraction timing guides most hospital admissions, certain signs warrant immediate medical attention regardless of contraction frequency or intensity. If your water breaks, especially if the fluid is not clear (e.g., green or brown), contact your provider or go to the hospital right away. This could indicate the presence of meconium, the baby’s first stool, which requires prompt assessment.
Significant vaginal bleeding, like a menstrual period or heavier, is another urgent sign needing immediate medical evaluation. A noticeable decrease in fetal movement should prompt an immediate call to your provider or a hospital trip. Other concerning symptoms include persistent severe headaches, vision changes (blurriness or spots), sudden face or hand swelling, or severe, unresolved abdominal pain. These may indicate complications needing urgent medical care.
What to Do Before Heading Out
Once you decide to go to the hospital, a few practical steps ensure a smoother transition. First, contact your healthcare provider or the maternity unit to inform them of your arrival and receive specific instructions. This allows the hospital staff to prepare for your admission.
Gather your pre-packed hospital bag with essential items for yourself, your partner, and the baby. Confirm transportation is available and your support person is prepared. Remaining calm and focusing on breathing techniques can help manage contractions during the journey.