How to Recognize Labor

The hospital bag is packed by the door, you have the quickest route to the hospital planned in your head, and the slightest hiccup from your spouse sends you in a panic searched for the car keys. You are only days away from becoming a new dad, but do you even know what the major signs of labor are?

Knowing the symptoms of labor is very important to the expectant father. Keep the following advice in mind and if your spouse is experiencing any of the following symptoms labor may just be around the corner.

Signs of Labor

• Your spouse may notice that the baby has ‘dropped.’ This means the baby has moved further down into the birth canal.
• Water breaking. Even the most inexperienced dad will recognize this symptom. The water is actually the rupturing of the amniotic sac causing the fluid that surrounds the baby to drain.
• Bleeding or overall discharge from the nether regions. Without going into detail, there is often a ‘bloody show’ that your spouse may experience. This is a good sign that your baby is knocking on the door of life.
• Regular, rhythmic contractions. Up until now, your spouse may have been experiencing what is known as Braxton Hicks contractions, which is irregular contractions that women can experience months before actual labor. When true labor beings, the contractions will begin to come in a regular pattern and occurring closer together. Contractions may start out over an hour apart and take several hours before they become the recommended 5-10 minutes apart before heading to the hospital.
• Back pain. Depending on the baby’s position, your spouse could be experiencing increased back labor. Treat the back pain as it is a contraction and time it to see if there is a pattern, or increased frequency.
• Nesting. Your spouse may suddenly have more energy then she has had in the past nine months. Nesting is assumed to be caused by hormones released before labor begins. It increases the instinctual desire to prepare the ‘nest.’ So don’t be surprised when you notice your wife washing light bulbs in the dishwasher; she is not crazy, I repeat – she is not crazy.

Now that you know what signs to look for, trust your instincts and do not hesitate head to the hospital if you suspect that your spouse may be in labor. Don’t be a hero or think you are doing anyone favors by staying home when you suspect your spouse is in labor. Peace of mind is well worth a quick visit to the hospital.

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Tagged as: Dad Skills, Pregnancy & Labor