What happens in early labour

For first-time mums especially, one of the biggest unknowns is simply: how will I know it’s labour, and what actually happens? Knowing the broad shape of it can take a lot of the fear out of those first hours.

Labour usually begins gradually. Early (or “latent”) labour is your cervix softening, thinning and starting to open. Contractions in this phase are often irregular and manageable — a tightening that builds and eases — and can come and go over hours, or even a day or two. You might also notice a “show” (a plug of blood-tinged mucus) or a low backache that won’t settle.

This early phase is usually best spent at home, comfortable and distracted. Rest if it’s night, stay gently active if it’s day, eat small snacks, sip water, and lean on heat packs, a warm shower, movement and slow breathing to stay on top of the sensations. Timing your contractions (Bloom’s contraction timer can help) lets you see when they’re settling into a real, regular pattern.

Active labour is when things step up: contractions become regular, longer, stronger and closer together, and your cervix opens more quickly. A common guide for when to head to hospital is the “5-1-1” rule — contractions about five minutes apart, each lasting around a minute, for an hour — but your midwife will give you guidance for your situation.

Some things mean you should call your hospital or midwife straight away, no matter the timing: your waters breaking (especially if the fluid is green or brown), bleeding heavier than a show, a noticeable drop in your baby’s movements, or simply feeling that something isn’t right. Trust that instinct — they would always rather hear from you.

The early phase can be a slog, especially if it goes on overnight or across a whole day. The best thing you can do is not watch the clock too closely or time every contraction from the very start — it tends to make the wait feel longer and more anxious. Distract yourself: a walk, a bath, a favourite show, a nap if it’s night. Eat light, easy snacks to keep your energy up, and keep your fluids going. Sometimes your waters break before contractions begin — if that happens, note the time and the colour and call your maternity unit for advice, as they’ll usually want to know even if labour hasn’t started. And if the sensations become regular, strong and close together, or you’re simply struggling to cope, that’s your cue to call and head in. It’s completely normal for first labours in particular to have a long, stop-start beginning before things settle into a rhythm.

Every labour is different, and it rarely unfolds like the movies. Going in with a flexible plan, a support person, and a rough map of the stages helps you meet it with more confidence than fear.