Being pregnant is an exciting time of life. It is even more exciting as you get to the third trimester and start to anticipate labor. If this is your first pregnancy, you might be wondering about the signs of labor. Every woman's body is different, so you may not show all of the signs, but these are some common signs of labor for many women.

1. Loss Of The Mucous Plug

Inside the cervix there is a plug of mucous. This plug stays present throughout the entire pregnancy until the cervix ripens enough and loosens up. As it gets more flexible, the plug will fall out. You will usually notice it as you go to the bathroom, or in your underwear. It can be clear, green, yellow, red, or brown. Once that mucous plug is discharged, it is a sign that labor is in the near future. It doesn't necessarily mean that it will come right away. Some women start to dilate days, even weeks before they actually deliver. However, once it has been discharged, you know you are getting closer.

2. Nausea

Another sign that the pregnancy is progressing toward delivery is nausea. Some women say that they experience diarrhea and vomiting instead of nausea as they get closer to delivering. If you experience this, you should try to get as much rest as possible and keep yourself hydrated. Although the experience may be unpleasant, it is a sign that you may be close to labor. This is why rest is very important so that your body is strong and healthy for delivery.

3. Cramping Of The Stomach

Every woman knows the term "contraction" but they might not know what they actually feel like. Although in the heat of labor, contractions will involve your whole stomach and will hurt, in the beginning they can feel like you are once again on your period with menstrual cramping. You may just feel a dull ache in your lower abdomen that comes and goes. The cramping may go away and not lead to full labor, so you could have this cramping for days before, but it is the beginning stages of labor. This is the process of moving the baby downward and opening the cervix for delivery.

If you ever have questions if you are in labor, you should talk to your doctor. They will be able to determine if it is the right time to go to the hospital, or if you should wait it out. 

For professional obstetrics care, contact an office such as Wooster Obstetrics and Gynecology Inc.