Pregnancy: 5 Signs Labor is Near

With a long nine months of pregnancy winding down, you start to wonder if that little twitch you felt is a sign that labor is near. After all, labor is the beginning of the end for your pregnancy and one step closer to holding your new bundle of joy. But how can you know for sure that the end is near? Here is 5 of the most common signs that labor is just around the corner:

Braxton Hicks Contractions Increase

By now, you should be use to these contractions. You know, the sudden tightening in your belly that goes away when you move around or change your activity. But now that you are getting closer to delivery, these contractions start coming more often and can even be somewhat painful at times. However, they should not come in regular intervals. If so, contact your doctor as you may be in labor!

Nesting

If you wake up one morning and have the sudden urge to clean your entire house and even your neighbor's, you can put blame on the fact that your pregnancy is almost over. Or maybe you have the feeling that you need to get everything in order for your baby. Either way, this is called "Nesting" and can be a sign that labor is near.

Mucus Plug

The mucus plug is not actually a plug, but a collection of old cervical mucus (or discharge) that seals the cervix. This protects your baby during your pregnancy. However, when you start to dilate and efface, this plug may come out. The appearance can range from a large clump of mucus to stringy discharge. It may even have small drops of blood mixed in. It is not exactly a beautiful sight, but it does indicate that your body is getting ready for labor!

Bloody Show

One of the biggest signs (besides contractions and your water breaking) that labor is near is what doctors call the "bloody show". This is a small amount of bleeding that occurs within 48 hours of labor. The bleeding can appear as blood-tinged mucus or as spotting. However, if this bleeding becomes heavy, contact your doctor immediately.

Feeling Tired

Throughout your entire pregnancy, you have probably noticed that you lack the energy you had before you became pregnant. During the days (or weeks) leading up to labor, your energy level may be at the lowest point ever. You may find yourself falling asleep without notice. Just take advantage of the extra sleep as you will need it when your new baby arrives!