Signs That Labor May Be Beginning

Lightening: When the fetus has dropped low in your pelvis. You may feel "lighter". This can happen a few weeks to a few hours before labor begins. 

Loss of the mucus plug: A thick mucus plug forms at the cervix during pregnancy. When the cervix begins to open days before labor begins or at the start of labor, the plug can move into the vagina. You may have an increase in discharge that is clear, pink, or slightly bloody. This may start before contractions and is normal. 

Rupture of membranes: When the fluid sac that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy breaks, it's called the rupture of membranes. This is also known as "your water breaking". You may feel this as fluid that trickles or gushes from your vagina. If your water breaks, call your Provider's office and follow their instructions.