Signs Before Childbirth

The main signs of impending labor include the following: 1. **Show (bloody discharge):** Within 24–48 hours before labor begins, the fetal membranes near the internal cervical os separate from the uterine wall, causing rupture of capillaries. This results in a small amount of blood being discharged through the vagina, known as "show." 2. **Irregular contractions:** Prior to the onset of labor, the uterine muscle layer becomes more sensitive, leading to irregular contractions. These contractions vary in frequency, are short in duration, and occur at long, irregular intervals. 3. **Feeling of fetal descent:** As the presenting part of the fetus descends into the pelvis, the pregnant woman may feel more comfortable in the upper abdomen, with improvement in breathing and appetite. 4. **Other signs:** Additional signs of impending labor may include increased vaginal discharge, frequent feelings of abdominal tension, pain in the upper thighs, decreased fetal movement, and a visible lowering of the abdomen. However, these symptoms may vary from person to person.