Signs Labour Might Be Starting & When to Go to Hospital

Waiting for labour to start can feel like a mix of excitement, nerves, and constantly wondering “Is this it?”.Especially in those final weeks of pregnancy, every twinge, cramp, or change can make you question whether it’s time to head to hospital.

If you’re expecting, here’s a simple, clear guide to the signs labour MIGHT be starting and when you should actually go in.

First Things First: Every Labour Is Different

Labour doesn’t always start dramatically. For some women, it builds slowly over hours or even days. For others, things progress quickly. There is no “perfect” textbook beginning, however there are some common signs to watch for.

Early Signs Labour Might Be Starting

You might be entering early labour if you notice:

🤍 Period-like cramps

Mild but persistent cramps in your lower back or abdomen that come and go.

🤍 Backache that doesn’t go away

A dull, constant lower back pain that feels different from normal pregnancy discomfort.

🤍 Increased tightening (Braxton Hicks becoming stronger)

Contractions that:

• Become more regular
• Feel stronger over time
• Don’t ease with rest or hydration

🤍 A “show” (mucus plug)

A jelly-like discharge, sometimes tinged with blood, which can mean your cervix is changing.

🤍 Sudden urge to nest or “something feels different”

Many mums describe a shift in instinct or energy just before labour starts.

Signs You’re Moving Into Active Labour

This is when things become more consistent:

• Contractions are regular and getting closer together
• They last around 30–60 seconds
• They become stronger and harder to talk through
• They don’t ease when you change position or rest

A general guide often used is the 5-1-1 rule:
👉 Contractions every 5 minutes
👉 Lasting 1 minute
👉 For at least 1 hour

When to Go to Hospital

You should contact your maternity hospital or go in if:

• Your waters break (especially if not clear or you’re unsure)
• Contractions are regular and painful
• You notice reduced baby movements
• You have bleeding (more than a light show)
• You feel something isn’t right
  

In Ireland, our maternity units are amazing and will often advise you over the phone first, so don’t hesitate to ring early if you’re unsure. The midwives are very helpful and experts in their field so will have a good indication of whether you need to come into the hospital or wait at home a little longer. Often, getting assurance from the hospital can reduce any anxiety that you may be feeling at that time.  

If You’re Having Your First Baby

Labour can take longer for your first baby (I had a 26 hour labour on my first but my other two came very fast!), and it’s very common to go in to hospital slightly earlier just for reassurance.

If you’re unsure:
👉 Always call your maternity hospital, they would much rather reassure you than have you waiting at home anxious.

Why Being Prepared Matters

One of the biggest things that helps in those final days is simply feeling ready.

Having your hospital bag packed by 34–36 weeks means:

• No last-minute panic
• No rushing around during contractions
• No forgetting essentials
• A calmer mindset when things start

It lets you focus on the moment—not the logistics.

Final Thought

There is no perfect moment where everything suddenly feels obvious.

But as a general rule:

• If contractions are regular and getting stronger
• If something feels different and persistent
• Or if you’re unsure at all

👉 It’s always okay to call your maternity unit. They are there to guide you through it.

And remember, your body knows what it’s doing more than you think!