Signs of labor

Real labor contractions get longer, stronger, and closer together — and they keep going regardless of what you do. Braxton Hicks contractions ease when you rest, change position, or drink water. Real labor doesn't. The classic "5-1-1" rule for first-time births: contractions every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute each, for 1 hour straight — time to head to the hospital. For repeat births, providers often suggest "7-1-1" or heading in a bit sooner since second labors move faster. Other labor signs: your water breaking (a gush or a slow trickle), a bloody show (thick pink or brown mucus discharge), and rhythmic lower back pain that comes in waves. Any bleeding heavier than a period warrants an immediate call.