- Home
- Pregnancy & Birth
- Giving Birth
- Signs of Labor
Signs of Labor
What are the signs of labor? Are those cramps the real thing or Braxton Hicks contractions? And what do real contractions feel like anyway? Here you'll learn how to recognize real labor signs. Plus we'll help you prepare for your baby's delivery.
Quiz: Am I About to Go into Labor?
Are you very close to delivering your baby? Take our quiz and find out if you're showing the signs of approaching labor!
Take Quiz
How to Recognize Early Labor Symptoms
Worried about early labor? While it can can sometimes be stopped with a combo of meds and bed rest, it's important to be on the lookout for these warning signs so you can call your doctor ASAP if you think there's a problem.
Am I in Labor?: Our Stage-by-Stage Guide to Giving Birth
Here's how you'll know -- our stage-by-stage guide to giving birth.
3 Signs That You May Be in Labor
No one wants to arrive at the hospital too early -- or risk giving birth in the car. So how can you tell the difference between real and false labor? Pay attention to the following classic labor-day signs.
5 Signs You're Going Into Labor
Are those contractions signs of labor approaching? You may be going into labor. Before you grab your hospital bag, check to see if you're experiencing these common signs of labor to find out if you should call your doctor.
Is It Gas or Contractions?
Tummy troubles are all too common in pregnancy. Find out if your current issues are just gas pains -- or something bigger!
Labor & Delivery: Contractions
When it comes to contractions, not knowing what to expect can be scary. Learn more about when contractions occur and be prepared for when they do.
Labor & Delivery: Signs of Real vs. False Labor
It can be hard to know when those contractions are the real thing. Here are some tips to help you figure out whether you are actually in labor or whether you're experiencing false labor symptoms.
Labor & Delivery: Inducing Labor
Even if you're ready to deliver, you doctor might feel differently. Learn when your OB might induce labor and safe ways to help move Baby along.
Premature Rupture of Membranes (PROM)
Learn the risk factors for PROM and what to do if you suspect your membranes have ruptured.
Am I in Premature Labor?
Early contractions may not feel like labor at full-term. Get the scoop on the warning signs, so you can seek help if preterm labor starts for you.
When Will You Feel Contractions?
You're counting down the days until your due date -- but long before that, you may start feeling the contractions that will help your baby make his appearance.
Health 101: Inducing Labor
Find out what induction is, the medical and nonmedical reasons for inducing labor, and the potential risks that inducing labor carries for pregnant women and their babies.
Q&A: I'm Dilated -- Will I Go Into Labor Today?
Find out what it means to go into labor and when you should start preparing.
Braxton Hicks Contractions
Thinking you're having contractions? Find out if they might be harmless Braxton Hicks contractions.
Birth Stories: "My Water Broke..."
Julia, who recently gave birth to her second daughter, shares her birth story after her water broke and her labor was induced. Julia also gives tips on how to push Baby out.
Labor & Delivery: Labor & Delivery Timeline
If you are a first time mom, you are probably wondering what to expect on delivery day. Get an understanding of what the typical progression is like with this timeline.
What Contractions Really Feel Like
If your due date is fast approaching and you're wondering what to expect from labor pains, here's what you should know about what contractions really feel like.
What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions and How Do They Feel?
Are you in labor--or is it false labor, known as Braxton Hicks contractions? Find out the differences between the signs of Braxton Hicks and the real thing.