As pregnancy nears its conclusion, many expectant individuals become aware of their bodies for signs of approaching labor. This period brings anticipation and anxiety as the body prepares for childbirth. Altered bowel habits, like increased frequency or looser stools, are commonly observed and raise questions about their significance.
Bowel Changes as a Potential Labor Sign
Increased bowel movements, including diarrhea, can signal the approaching onset of labor. This physiological shift is attributed to the body’s natural preparation, sometimes called a “clearing out” before childbirth. Hormonal changes play a significant role.
As labor nears, the body increases prostaglandin production. These chemical messengers soften and ripen the cervix, preparing it for dilation. Prostaglandins also stimulate smooth muscles, including those in the intestines, leading to increased intestinal activity and more frequent, looser stools.
A decrease in progesterone, which slows digestion during pregnancy, also allows the gastrointestinal system to become more active. While diarrhea can indicate labor is hours to days away, it is not a definitive sign. It is common and natural, but can also result from dietary changes, mild infections, or increased anxiety.
Other Common Early Labor Indicators
Beyond bowel changes, other signs suggest labor is drawing near. The “bloody show” is a common sign, involving mucus tinged with blood. It occurs as the cervix softens, thins, and dilates, causing small blood vessels to rupture. The mucus plug, which sealed the cervix during pregnancy, may also dislodge as a thick, blood-streaked discharge.
Another indicator is “lightening” or “dropping,” where the baby descends deeper into the pelvis. For first-time mothers, this can happen a few weeks before delivery, easing diaphragm pressure and making breathing easier, though it may increase bladder pressure. Persistent lower backache and menstrual-like cramps, which may or may not be accompanied by abdominal cramping, are also reported as early labor signs. Some individuals experience a sudden burst of energy, known as the “nesting instinct,” prompting cleaning or organizing.
Distinguishing Between Early Labor and Other Discomforts
It is important to distinguish between true early labor and other late-pregnancy discomforts. Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “practice contractions” or “false labor,” are common in the second and third trimesters. Unlike true labor, Braxton Hicks are irregular, less intense, and often subside with position changes, rest, or hydration. They do not cause cervical dilation.
True labor contractions, conversely, become progressively stronger, more frequent, and longer-lasting. They do not ease with movement or position changes and are often felt across the entire abdomen, sometimes radiating to the lower back and legs. These contractions lead to cervical changes, such as effacement (thinning) and dilation (opening). While early labor signs like increased discharge or mild cramping can be subtle, the consistent progression and intensity of contractions indicate true labor.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Knowing when to contact a healthcare provider is important for a safe labor experience. Call if contractions become regular, strong, and consistently closer together, such as every 5 minutes, lasting about 1 minute each, for at least an hour. This pattern, often called the 5-1-1 rule, suggests active labor may be underway.
Contact a healthcare provider immediately if the amniotic sac ruptures, known as “water breaking,” whether or not contractions have started. This is particularly important if the fluid is not clear, but rather green or brown, which could indicate the baby has passed meconium. Other urgent situations include significant vaginal bleeding (more than light spotting), a decrease in fetal movement, or if any of these symptoms occur before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Trusting intuition and seeking professional guidance for any concerns is always recommended.