Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Naziye Gürkan said, “Among these symptoms that indicate the onset or approach of labor, pain, bleeding and water breaking are the main ones. Each of these findings indicates different stages of the birth process and should be carefully monitored.”
Stating that the first thing to focus on in the birth process is pain, which is the most known and common symptom of childbirth, Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist from VM Medical Park Samsun Hospital, Dr. Lecturer. Member Naziye Gürkan said, “Pain is a result of uterine contractions and is a natural part of the birth preparation process. However, not every pain indicates that labor has begun. The distinctive feature of labor pains is that they come at regular intervals. At first they may be mild and irregular, but over time they become more frequent and stronger. Sometimes they can also be felt in the back and lower back. If your pain is becoming more regular and frequent, this can be a strong sign that labor has started.”
“The arrival of water is a sure sign of impending labor”
Stating that the second important symptom is bleeding and is characterized by the arrival of a slimy secretion called engagement mixed with blood, Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Gürkan said, “This is an indication that the cervix is beginning to open. The thinning and softening of the cervix indicates that labor is approaching and is usually a sign that labor will begin within 24 to 48 hours, but it can be seen in different time periods in each expectant mother.” Stating that the third symptom is water breaking, Gürkan said, “This occurs when the amniotic sac ruptures and the fluid that the baby is in flows out. Water breaking can usually be felt as a sudden flow of fluid that will wet your legs, but sometimes this can also happen slowly and drop by drop. The fluid is usually clear, but can sometimes be slightly bloody or yellowish. A green color suggests that the baby has defecated in the womb and requires urgent medical attention. Water breaking is a sure sign of impending labor and indicates that the birth process has started and the baby is about to enter the birth canal. Even if labor pains have not started at this stage, the onset of labor will usually occur within a few hours.”
“Signs that can be observed in your body as you approach labor”
Stating that in addition to these three main findings, there are some other signs that indicate that the birth is approaching, Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Gürkan said, “One of these is the feeling of relaxation in the upper abdomen. This occurs as your baby descends into the birth canal and reduces the pressure on your abdomen and makes it easier for you to breathe. It usually happens a few weeks before the birth and is a sign that the mother's body is preparing for the birth. It is common for your bowels to become more active before the birth and for diarrhea to occur as a result. This is considered part of the body's prenatal cleansing process. On the other hand, you may feel an increase in your energy levels in the days leading up to the birth. This is described by some mothers as the 'nest-building instinct' and can lead to pre-natal activities such as making home improvements and cleaning. The baby may move to get into the right position for birth. Maybe your baby cannot wait to come into the world.”
“The birth process of every expectant mother can be different”
Emphasizing that all these symptoms are important signs indicating that the birth is approaching, Dr. Lecturer. Prof. Dr. Gürkan also said the following:
“The birth process of each expectant mother can progress differently, so it is of great importance to follow the symptoms carefully and inform your doctor in case of any changes. Especially when you experience one or more of these symptoms, it is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider to make sure that labor has started. Following your doctor's advice during this process will help you have a healthy birth.”
