Signs Labour Is Starting (And When to Go to Hospital UK)
As your due date gets closer, it’s completely normal to start wondering:
“Will I know when labour starts?”
“When am I actually supposed to go to hospital?”
There’s a lot of information out there and it can feel overwhelming.
So this is a calm, straightforward guide to what early labour can look like, and how to know when it’s time to go in.
First…labour doesn’t always start suddenly
Despite what films show, labour often begins gradually. You might not have a clear “this is it” moment. Instead, things tend to build over time.
Common early signs of labour
Not everyone experiences all of these and they don’t always happen in a set order.
1. Irregular contractions
These might feel like:
tightening across your bump
period-like cramps
lower back ache
They may:
come and go
be spaced far apart
not feel very intense at first
This is often the start of early labour.
2. A “show” (mucus plug)
You might notice:
a jelly-like discharge which isn sometimes tinged with blood
This means your cervix is beginning to change but it doesn’t necessarily mean labour will start immediately. It could still be hours or days.
3. Your waters breaking
This can look like:
a sudden gush or a slow trickle
If your waters break, it’s usually recommended to contact your maternity unit for guidance even if contractions haven’t started yet. However, this is entirely up to you.
4. A shift in how you feel
Some people notice:
a burst of energy (nesting)
feeling unsettled or emotional
needing quiet or space
These can be subtle signs your body is preparing.
What early labour often feels like
Early labour can feel:
manageable
inconsistent
like something you’re aware of, but still able to talk through
You might still:
move around
eat
rest
go about your day
This is something I spend time exploring in my antenatal preparation sessions. Because in reality, labour doesn’t always follow a clear pattern and that uncertainty can feel unsettling.
We talk through what’s normal, what can vary and how to recognise what’s happening in your body so you’re not left second-guessing yourself when it begins.
When labour becomes more established
As labour progresses, contractions usually:
become stronger
last longer
come closer together
You might find it harder to:
talk through them
ignore them
stay focused on anything else
This is often when things are moving into active labour.
When to contact the midwives (UK guidance)
General NHS guidance is often to make contact when:
contractions are regular (around every 3–5 minutes)
lasting about 60 seconds
and have been consistent for a while
But this isn’t a strict rule and no two labours are exactly the same.
You might be advised to go in if:
your waters have broken
you’re bleeding
baby’s movements change
you feel unsure or concerned
You can always call the labour ward for advice.
It’s OK if you’re not sure
One of the hardest parts is that there isn’t always a clear line between early labour and active labour and that’s ok.
You’re allowed to:
check in
ask questions
go in and be assessed
You’re not expected to figure it out perfectly on your own.
If you’re planning a VBAC
You may be given slightly different guidance about when to come in.
This can vary depending on your hospital or individual situation.
If you’re unsure, it’s worth:
asking in advance
noting down what’s been recommended for you
(You might also find this helpful: “Planning a VBAC in the NHS”)
Trusting your instincts matters too
Alongside guidance, your instincts matter.
If something feels:
different
intense
or just not quite right
You’re allowed to seek support.
You don’t have to do this alone
Labour can feel intense; not just physically, but emotionally too.
Having someone to:
reassure you
help you stay grounded
talk things through
can make a big difference in how it feels.
If you’d like support
I’m a doula based in Cambridgeshire, supporting women across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire including those preparing for labour and planning a VBAC.
If you’d like calm, steady support as you approach birth, you’re very welcome to reach out.