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Obstetrics guide

Signs of Labour and When to Go to Hospital

A practical overview of contractions, membrane rupture, show, early labour and urgent reasons to contact maternity care.

7 min readUpdated 20 July 2026

This guide supports an informed consultation and is not a personalised diagnosis or treatment plan.

Possible early signs

A mucus show, pelvic pressure, backache and irregular contractions may occur before established labour.

Established labour

Contractions generally become stronger, longer and more regular. Your maternity unit should advise when to attend based on gestation, distance, previous births and risk factors.

Waters breaking

Fluid may be a gush or a trickle. Note the time, colour and smell, use a pad rather than a tampon, and contact the maternity service.

When to seek urgent careHeavy bleeding, green or brown fluid, reduced fetal movement, severe constant pain, fever, or labour symptoms before 37 weeks needs urgent assessment.
Medical note: Individual assessment is essential when symptoms are new, severe, persistent or changing.