Is This Labor? Signs of True vs. False Labor and What to Do Next

Potential signs of labor include contractions, fluid leaking (rupture of membranes), vaginal bleeding, loss of the mucus plug, or lightening. See below for more details about each of these signs of labor.

Contractions: Labor contractions are regular, get closer together, and become stronger and more painful over time. They may feel like abdominal tightening or menstrual cramps lasting about 60–90 seconds, and are usually felt in the abdomen, uterus, pelvis, or lower back. Contractions that do not result in labor, called Braxton Hicks contractions, can occur for many weeks before labor begins. Braxton Hicks contractions may still be uncomfortable but are typically less painful, less regular, and do not increase in frequency. If you’re feeling contractions, start timing them, and there are many free apps that can help. If resting and drinking water cause the contractions to stop, it is not true labor. If contractions persist, contact your OB provider or go to the hospital. The only way to determine false versus true labor is by checking whether your cervix is changing. Cervical dilation and thinning indicate true labor.

Fluid leaking (rupture of membranes): Your baby is surrounded by amniotic fluid inside a protective sac in the uterus. When this sac breaks, commonly called your “water breaking,” fluid may leak from the vagina. This can feel like a small trickle or a large gush, and it may occur once or continue leaking depending on the size and location of the opening. If you experience fluid leakage, you should go to the hospital for evaluation, even if you are not having contractions.

Vaginal bleeding: Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy always warrants evaluation. During labor, bleeding can occur as the cervix dilates and thins, causing small blood vessels to break. This is known as bloody show and often appears as light pink, blood-tinged, or brownish mucus or discharge.

Loss of the mucus plug: During pregnancy, thick mucus fills the cervix to help protect the baby from infection. As the cervix begins to prepare for labor by softening, thinning, and opening, the mucus plug may be released. You may lose part of it, all of it, or none at all before labor begins. It typically appears as thick, sticky discharge that may be clear, pink, or blood-tinged. While this can signal that labor is approaching, it may happen weeks, days, or hours beforehand.

Lightening: Lightening occurs when your baby drops lower into your pelvis, which may relieve pressure in your upper abdomen and make breathing feel easier. Not everyone notices this change, and it can happen weeks before delivery.

This overview highlights common signs that your body may be preparing for or entering labor. Every labor experience is different, even between pregnancies. It’s important to immediately seek evaluation if you experience constant severe abdominal pain or notice decreased fetal movement. The third trimester is a great time to talk with your OB provider about signs of labor and ask key questions, such as where you will deliver, how to reach the office after hours, and whether you should call first or go directly to the hospital.

Before labor begins, it’s helpful to have a plan in place. This includes knowing where your hospital is and how long it will take to get there, having your hospital bag packed and accessible, ensuring your car seat is installed correctly, and arranging childcare or pet care ahead of time.

Labor is an exciting time filled with anticipation, uncertainty, and very normal anxiety. Being informed and prepared can help you feel more confident as your body begins the labor process.

Reference:

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. How to Tell When Labor Begins. ACOG FAQ004. Published May 2020. Accessed January 15, 2026. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/how-to-tell-when-labor-begins.