Indigestion is common in late pregnancy, often leading to questions about its connection to labor. While this discomfort can be pronounced, it is generally not a direct indicator that labor is beginning. Instead, indigestion and related symptoms in late pregnancy are normal physiological responses to the body’s changes. Understanding the distinct signs of labor versus typical pregnancy discomforts can provide reassurance and clarity as the due date approaches.
Understanding Indigestion During Late Pregnancy
The body undergoes significant changes in late pregnancy, contributing to increased indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux. A primary factor is the surge in progesterone levels, a hormone crucial for maintaining pregnancy. Progesterone relaxes smooth muscles, including the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which typically prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. When the LES relaxes, stomach acid can more easily reflux, causing heartburn.
The growing uterus also exerts considerable pressure on the stomach, pushing contents upward and exacerbating indigestion and heartburn. Digestion tends to slow down during pregnancy due to hormonal influences, allowing food to remain longer in the stomach, which can increase feelings of fullness, bloating, and discomfort. These changes are a normal part of supporting fetal growth, not a sign of impending labor.
Key Indicators of Labor
Recognizing labor involves observing specific changes that indicate the body is preparing for childbirth. One indicator is true contractions, distinct from Braxton Hicks. True labor contractions are regular, becoming progressively stronger, longer, and more frequent, and they do not subside with changes in activity or position. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, less painful, and often lessen or disappear with movement or rest.
Another sign of labor is the rupture of membranes, or “water breaking.” This can be a sudden gush of fluid or a slow trickle from the vagina. The fluid is usually clear or pale yellow and odorless. While water breaking often signals labor will soon follow, it does not always precede contractions, and labor can begin hours or days later.
The “bloody show” is another sign, involving the discharge of blood-tinged mucus. This occurs as the cervix softens, thins (effaces), and opens (dilates) in preparation for birth, causing small blood vessels to rupture and mix with the mucus plug. While it indicates cervical changes, it does not necessarily mean labor is imminent and can happen days before active labor.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Knowing when to seek medical attention during late pregnancy is important for reassurance and safety. If you experience strong, regular contractions consistent with true labor—increasing in intensity and occurring every 5 minutes or more frequently—contact your healthcare provider. If your water breaks, whether a gush or a trickle, call your provider immediately, as this signifies a change in your pregnancy status.
Any vaginal bleeding heavier than light spotting, especially resembling a menstrual period, warrants immediate medical consultation. Severe or persistent abdominal pain, even if not linked to contractions, should also be reported. While indigestion is common, if it becomes severe, debilitating, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like vision changes, sudden swelling, or fever, contact your healthcare provider. Trusting your instincts and communicating concerns ensures appropriate care.