The more you know about labour and delivery the more relaxed and confident you will be.

During your pregnancy, your baby has been happily developing inside your womb. As the ninth month begins to wind down, you can expect your baby to make its appearance but it is impossible to know exactly when you will give birth.

The majority of babies arrive sometime in the two-week period before or after their due date. It is important for you to be familiar with the signs of labour so you will be able recognise them when the time comes.

Painful Uterine Contractions

Contractions are the regular tightening of the uterus, working to dilate (open) the cervix and to push the baby down the birth canal.
Contractions are cramp like pains

A Show

This is the release of the mucus plug, which seals the opening of the cervix.

In some women it comes out as a single blob of pinkish jelly, in others, it is a series of smaller pieces.

Waters Breaking

The amniotic sac is the bag of fluid that surrounds your baby in the uterus. When this breaks or ruptures the fluid escapes. The waters can release with a sudden gush or a gradual trickle.