Signs of Labor (When to Call)

Some early symptoms of labor (or pre-labor) may precede labor by up to 10 days:

Pre-Labor Symptoms

• Lower abdominal cramping, contractions that go away with change in activity, contractions that are variable in length, frequency and severity
• Backache
• "Lightening" or dropping - relief of pressure in the chest and upper abdomen accompanied by the sensation of increasing pelvic pressure, often accompanied by the need to urinate more frequently
• Losing the "mucus plug", a slippery glob of brownish cervial mucus
• Soft bowel movements - several BMs in several hours; may be associated with GI upset or cramping
• "Breaking the bag of waters" - amniotic fluid can come out in a trickle or a flood.  Usually amniotic fluid has an odor distinct from the odor of urine and unlike urine, the flow can't be stopped by contracting the muscles you use to stop peeing.
• Nesting urges - an unusual burst of energy; desire to complete preparations for the baby

When To Call

Remember "5-1-1" and call us when contractions are"

• 5 - every 5 minutes from the beginning of 1 contraction to the beginning of the next
• 1 - each contraction lasts for a full minute
• 1 - regular contractions occur for at least 1 hour
• Intense contractions require your full concentration
• If this is not your first baby, call when you are experiencing regular contractions and any of the associated symptoms like soft bowel movements, bloody show, etc.
• Decreased movement of the baby is something that we will always want to hear about.  Please don't hesitate to call us at any time of the day.
• Please call us with any sort of bleeding, especially if it is more than half a pad.

Please call us if you have any worry or concerns about your pregnancy, think you may have broken your bag of water or are having heavy bleeding.

Call our main number if you think you're in labor (303-755-0120), press "0" after hours and you will be connected to our answering service that will then connect you with the doctor on call.