As the time of birth approaches, a mother looks for signs of impending natural childbirth to prepare for her baby's arrival and ensure she goes to the hospital in time for a safe delivery for herself and her baby.
Therefore, in this article, we will discuss the most important signs and changes that occur in the mother's body indicating the baby's readiness to be born, which she should pay close attention to.
What is natural childbirth
Natural childbirth is the process of the baby's expulsion from the mother's uterus through the vagina without surgical intervention. The uterus begins with natural contractions that help dilate the cervix.
Then the baby is pushed out, and the placenta is delivered. Health complications for both mother and baby are rare, and the mother can recover quickly after childbirth.
Signs of impending natural childbirth
Lower back pain is one of the signs that indicate natural childbirth
There are signs that indicate impending natural childbirth, which begin to appear gradually in the weeks and days immediately preceding delivery. These include:
- General fatigue and tiredness.
- Dilation and effacement of the cervix.
- Severe lower back pain that radiates to the abdomen.
- Regular contractions (labor pains).
- The mucus plug is expelled from the cervix.
- The amniotic sac ruptures, releasing the amniotic fluid.
- Vaginal discharge increases, sometimes accompanied by light spotting.
- The baby's head descends, and pressure is felt in the pelvic area.
First: Strong, Regular Uterine Contractions
Uterine contractions are among the clearest signs of natural childbirth and can be observed through the following symptoms:
- Their intensity gradually increases.
- The pain begins in the lower back and extends to the abdomen.
- The pain does not subside when lying down and resting.
- The contractions are regular, and the time between them gradually decreases.
Second: Cervical Thinning and Dilation
Cervical dilation is a sign of natural childbirth and occurs as a result of uterine contractions. It can only be confirmed through a medical examination.
This sign appears when the cervix thins and dilates from 1 cm to 10 cm, accompanied by increased pressure in the lower pelvis.
Third: Increased Vaginal Discharge and Loss of the Mucus Plug
After the cervix dilates, vaginal discharge increases, and the mucus plug that sealed the cervix throughout pregnancy to protect the fetus from infection begins to be expelled. This sign manifests as:
- Thick, sticky discharge.
- Light streaks of blood may accompany this discharge.
- Severe pain is rarely present.
- This discharge may be clear, pinkish, or brownish.
Fourth: The Baby's Drop into the Pelvis
When the baby's head descends into the pelvis, it means the baby is ready to be born. This sign varies from woman to woman and may manifest as the following symptoms:
- Lower back pain.
- A feeling of intense pressure in the lower abdomen.
- Discomfort while walking or sitting.
- Increased urge to urinate due to pressure on the bladder.
Fifth: Rupture of membranes (water breaking) is a sign of natural childbirth
Rupture of membranes is one of the clearest signs of natural childbirth. It occurs when the amniotic sac surrounding the fetus ruptures. It is essential to go to the hospital immediately upon its appearance. Symptoms include:
- No pain.
- Discharge of clear fluid from the vagina.
- Inability to control its release.
- It may come in a continuous trickle or all at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of natural childbirth
Uterine contractions are among the first signs of natural childbirth. These contractions increase in intensity and frequency over time, in addition to lower back pain that does not subside with rest.
Where do labor pains begin
Labor pains begin with lower back pain, which then spreads to the lower abdomen. The pain does not subside with rest and becomes regular and intense, also known as labor pains.
When should I go to the hospital if labor pains begin
If labor begins and is regular, occurring every 5 minutes for an hour, or if the contractions are accompanied by the rupture of membranes (water breaking) or the appearance of bleeding, these are signs indicating natural childbirth.
How do I know if the pain is labor
If the uterine contractions are regular, increase in intensity over time, and continue for a period of time without subsiding with rest.
Article Summary
There are clear signs of natural childbirth, such as lower back pain that radiates to the abdomen, and regular uterine contractions that do not subside with rest.
There are also some signs that, if present, require going to the hospital, such as the rupture of membranes and an increase in the frequency and regularity of contractions, occurring every 5 minutes for an hour.