When to call – is it labour?
First baby
When you are having your first baby it difficult to know when labour is happening and when it is time to call the hospital midwives or your continuity midwife.
You may be advised to labour at home in the early stages. Early labour can last several hours or several days. Research has shown that women labour much better if they stay at home in the early stages.
In early labour you may have:
- a blood-stained mucus discharge called a ‘show’
- lower back pain
- period like pain that comes and goes
- loose bowel motions
- an urge to vomit, or
- your waters break (clear or pinkish colour).
In early labour, if you have a normal health pregnancy, you are encouraged to remain at home for as long as you can. Eat regular snacks and drink fluid to build up your energy reserves, and rest as much as possible. Try relaxing in the shower or use a heat pack for pain. It is important to go to the toilet regularly.
It is not always clear when to come to hospital. If you are worried at any point, call the Birth Suite midwives or your continuity midwife.
If it is your first baby, please contact the hospital midwives or your continuity midwife for advice when your contractions are:
- regular
- strong
- about five minutes apart
- lasting about 45-60 seconds
- and this has been occurring for over an hour.
Second baby
Second babies often arrive more quickly than the first, so you may need to contact the Birth Suite or your midwife sooner.
Risk factors
If you have any risk factors such as a previous caesarean section or a high-risk pregnancy you may need monitoring sooner. If you are experiencing premature labour (before 37 weeks) you will need to come in for review. Always call the Birth Suite or your continuity midwife for guidance.
Call the Birth Suite or your continuity midwife immediately if:
- You pass any bright blood-stained fluid from the vagina.
- There is a reduction or change in fetal movement patterns.
- If your waters have broken and they are green or brown.
- If you are worried.
