What is early labour? Early labour is the first phase of labour. It’s when your body is warming up for the main event. It can last hours to a couple of days, especially if it’s your first baby. Common signs & symptoms 1. Contractions Feel like period cramps, lower back ache, or tightness across the belly Start irregular and usually mild May come every 10–30 minutes Often ease with rest, hydration, or a warm shower 👉 Early labour contractions don’t get intense quickly like active labour ones do. 2. Backache A dull, persistent ache in the lower back Can come and go or feel constant 3. Pelvic pressure Sensation of heaviness or pressure low down Feeling like baby is “dropping” 4. Changes in vaginal discharge Increased mucus You might lose the mucus plug (clear, pink, or blood-tinged) Losing it doesn’t mean labour is immediate—it can still be days away 5. “Bloody show” Light bleeding mixed with mucus Usually a sign the cervix is starting to open 6. GI symptoms Nausea Diarrhea Loss of appetite (This happens because your body is clearing space for labour) 7. Emotional changes Burst of energy (“nesting”) or Feeling emotional, restless, or unusually calm and focused What early labour usually isn’t Strong, regular contractions every 3–5 minutes Needing to stop and breathe through each contraction Intense pressure or urge to push (Those point more toward active labour) What you can do during early labour Rest and sleep when you can Eat light, easy-to-digest foods Drink plenty of fluids Warm shower or bath Gentle walking or stretching Time contractions occasionally, but don’t obsess Call your midwife or go to hospital if: Contractions become regular, stronger, and closer together Your waters break You have bright red bleeding Baby’s movements decrease You feel something just isn’t right (trust that instinct) If you want, tell me: How far along you are What symptoms you’re feeling right now