Buzz
For first-time mothers, the fear of giving birth unexpectedly without reaching the hospital may be daunting. Many expectant mothers wonder how to recognize signs of labor to prepare for childbirth. The following 10 signs signaling impending childbirth will help mothers feel more reassured and prepared:
1. Signs indicating imminent childbirth: 1-4 weeks before
Through health monitoring devices, doctors will inform mothers about the condition of their cervix. In the final weeks of pregnancy, the cervix will dilate and thin out. However, each expectant mother will experience different changes, so there is no need to worry if there are no noticeable changes in the cervix.
Back pain is the most common sign indicating that the baby is about to be born, which all mothers experience during childbirth, especially those giving birth for the second or third time. Why do pregnant mothers experience back pain during this stage? The reason is: As the baby moves down, the muscles and joints of the mother stretch, causing her to experience back and hip pain.
During the pregnancy period, the hormone relaxin has the effect of loosening and softening the joints, and nearing the due date, the joints will become even looser to help the baby be born more easily.
Weight may tend to stabilize in the final weeks of pregnancy, and some mothers may show signs of weight loss. This is completely normal and does not affect the baby, so mothers should not worry excessively.
The intestines of pregnant women, like other organs in the body, are preparing for the birth of the baby, so some mothers may experience symptoms of diarrhea. However, mothers should not worry too much; they need to eat a balanced diet and drink enough water.
Despite feeling tired due to a large belly, difficulty sleeping, and frequent visits to the bathroom during this period, many mothers enjoy tidying up and preparing everything such as cribs, cradles, and baby clothes. This is also listed as a sign indicating that the mother is about to give birth, so mothers take note!
2. Signs indicating imminent childbirth: A few days before
- Increase in vaginal discharge
A few days before childbirth, mothers may notice an increase in vaginal discharge with a reddish or pinkish color. This sign may indicate that the cervical mucus plug has been released, and the mother will give birth in just a few days.
3. Signs indicating imminent childbirth: A few hours before
- Onset of contractions
When contractions occur regularly and tend to intensify, it is a sign that your baby will be born within just one hour. - Rupture of membranes
According to statistics, about 15% of childbirths involve the rupture of membranes before labor pains begin. Therefore, if you notice a rupture of membranes, you should go to the hospital immediately because your little one may be born in just a few hours!
