If you are in the advanced stage of pregnancy, you must watch for every sign of labor and should not ignore any changes in your body. Although labor pain is one of the most extreme pains that a human body can endure, it is the most rewarding one too. Bringing a new life is the utmost joy that you will ever experience. As soon as you see your baby's face, you forget all the pain that you have gone through. With some knowledge and preparation, you can manage this pain efficiently and suffer comparatively less. For this, first you will have to recognize the signals sent by your body for the labor.

If you are a first time mother, you will experience early sign of labor a few weeks prior to the actual delivery date. These signs signal that your baby is ready to be delivered anytime and your body starts preparing for it .If you are delivering your second or third child, you may experience these signs very close to the due date.

Labor Signs And How To Recognize Them:

Let us take a look at some common labor signs so that you may become more alert and recognize them at once:

• As the due date nears, your baby drops into the pelvic region. You start breathing easily and almost all your pregnancy heartburn is gone. Your uterus starts softening in preparation for the delivery. This stage is known as engagement or dropping stage.
• You may start feeling a slight pain due to the drop. You urinate more frequently and have quicker bowel movements. This is due to the pressure that your baby is applying on the bladder. Some swelling on hands and feet will also be noticeable.
• Your vaginal secretion may increase. It will be white or pinkish in color. This is another sign of labor. If the discharge is yellowish, you must inform your doctor as this could be due to some infection.
• There is another indication known as the Braxton Hicks contractions, named after the doctor who recognized this symptom. During this, your uterus experiences contractions which are not the real contractions you experience during actual labor. They stretch from the lower part of your uterus. Lying down and taking it easy are the proper ways to handle it.
• The ultimate sign of labor comes when your water breaks. In some women, it happens before the contractions begin whereas in other cases, it happens after they start. If contractions do not begin after the water breaks, you may be have to go through induced labor pain.
   

All these signs indicate that your baby is ready to be delivered. Do not ignore any symptoms and keep your caregiver informed about all you experience. The sign of labor indicates the happy times when your baby will finally arrive in this world!