Elara guides
How to know labour is starting
The real signs — and when to pick up the phone.
Updated · Sources
In the final weeks, every twinge raises the question: is this it? Labour usually announces itself gradually, with a handful of recognisable signs. Knowing them — and knowing when to call — means you can stay calm and act at the right moment.
Signs labour may be near or starting
- A “show” — the mucus plug coming away, sometimes pink-tinged.
- Regular contractions that get longer, stronger and closer together.
- Persistent lower-back ache or period-like cramping.
- Your waters breaking — a gush or a slow trickle of fluid.
- Some people get a burst of nesting energy, or loose stools, in the day or two before.
Early vs active labour
Early (latent) labour can last hours or even a day or two: irregular, manageable contractions while your cervix softens and starts to open. This is usually the time to rest, eat, and stay home if all is well. Active labour is when contractions become regular, strong and close — that's when things move and when you'll typically head in.
When to call
A common first-baby guide is 5-1-1: contractions five minutes apart, one minute long, for one hour. But call sooner — at any time — if your waters break, you have bright-red bleeding, your baby's movements change, you feel unwell, or you're simply unsure.
Real contractions or practice ones?
Braxton Hicks contractions are painless or mildly uncomfortable tightenings that many people feel in the second half of pregnancy. They tend to be irregular, do not get steadily stronger and often ease if you change position, rest or have a drink.
Labour contractions follow a pattern: they come at regular intervals, each one lasts longer, and they get stronger and closer together over time. They do not go away when you move or rest. Many people feel them start in the back and spread around to the front.
Timing contractions
- Time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next — that is how far apart they are.
- Also note how long each contraction lasts, from when it starts to when it fully eases.
- Watch the pattern over an hour rather than reacting to one or two contractions.
- Write down when your waters broke, the colour of the fluid and anything else unusual, so you can tell the maternity unit.
- Your unit may give you its own rule, especially if this is not your first baby or you live far away — follow their advice over any general rule.
If your waters break
Your waters can break with a gush or a slow trickle, and it can happen before contractions start. Call your maternity unit when it happens. They will usually want to know the time, the colour of the fluid and whether you are having contractions.
Tell them straight away if the fluid is green, brown or smelly, or contains blood, because this can mean you and your baby need to be checked sooner.
Coping at home in early labour
If all is well, the early (latent) phase is often spent at home. Rest when you can, eat light snacks and keep drinking. A warm bath or shower, a massage, walking around and slow breathing all help. Your birth partner can time contractions, keep you fed and watered, and be the one who calls the unit.
In the Elara app, the contraction timer records the length and spacing of each contraction and shows when the pattern reaches the 5-1-1 guide, with a Live Activity on the Lock Screen. It helps you describe the pattern on the phone — your maternity unit still decides when you should come in.
Common questions
What is the 5-1-1 rule?
It is a common guide for a first baby: contractions about five minutes apart, each lasting about one minute, for at least one hour. Your maternity unit may give you different advice, and you should call sooner for any warning sign.
How long does early labour last?
The early (latent) phase can take many hours, sometimes a day or more, especially with a first baby. Contractions are often irregular at first and become more regular as active labour begins.
How can I tell Braxton Hicks from real labour?
Braxton Hicks are irregular and do not get steadily stronger; they often ease with rest or a change of position. Labour contractions become regular, longer, stronger and closer together.
Should I call if I am not sure whether it is labour?
Yes. Maternity units expect calls from people who are unsure. They can talk you through what you are feeling and tell you whether to stay home or come in.
Sources & editorial process
- NHS — Signs that labour has begun
- ACOG — How to tell when labor begins
- NHS — The stages of labour and birth
- ACOG — Labor induction
Written by the Elara editorial team from the sources above. This page has not been reviewed by an independent clinician. Read how we write and update health pages. Last updated .
Medical disclaimer: this page is general education, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are worried about yourself or your baby, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. In an emergency call your local emergency number.