Preparing for Labor and Delivery
Everything you need to know about preparing for labor, including signs of labor, when to go to the hospital, and what to pack.
This educational article provides general information about labor preparation. Always discuss your specific situation and any concerns with your healthcare provider or birth team.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.
Signs of Labor
Early Signs (May Occur Days or Weeks Before)
- Lightening: Baby drops lower into pelvis (easier breathing, more pelvic pressure)
- Nesting instinct: Sudden burst of energy to prepare
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Braxton Hicks contractions: Practice contractions that don't progress
- Cervical changes: Your provider may notice changes during exam
Active Labor Signs
- Regular contractions: Getting stronger, longer, and closer together
- Water breaking: Rupture of membranes (can be a gush or trickle)
- Bloody show: Pink or blood-tinged mucus discharge
- Back pain: Persistent lower back pain
- Contractions timing: 5-1-1 rule (5 minutes apart, 1 minute long, for 1 hour)
When to Go to the Hospital
Go to the Hospital When:
- Contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, for 1 hour (5-1-1 rule)
- Your water breaks (even without contractions)
- You have heavy bleeding (more than spotting)
- You experience severe pain
- You notice decreased fetal movement
- Your provider has instructed you to come in
Go Immediately If:
- Bright red bleeding
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever over 100.4°F
- Severe headache or vision changes
- No fetal movement for extended period
Hospital Bag Checklist
For You
- Comfortable going-home outfit
- Robe and slippers
- Comfortable nursing bras (if breastfeeding)
- Maternity underwear
- Toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, etc.)
- Hair ties and headband
- Lip balm
- Phone and charger
- Insurance cards and ID
- Birth plan (if you have one)
- Snacks and drinks
- Entertainment (books, tablet, music)
For Baby
- Going-home outfit (newborn and 0-3 months sizes)
- Baby blanket
- Car seat (installed in car)
- Diapers and wipes
- Baby hat
- Receiving blankets
Stages of Labor
Stage 1: Labor
Early Labor: Contractions begin, cervix dilates 0-6 cm
Active Labor: Contractions intensify, cervix dilates 6-10 cm
Duration: 12-19 hours for first-time moms, 6-8 hours for subsequent births
Stage 2: Pushing and Birth
Cervix fully dilated, time to push
Duration: 1-3 hours for first-time moms, 30 minutes to 2 hours for subsequent births
Stage 3: Delivery of Placenta
Placenta is delivered after baby is born
Duration: 5-30 minutes
Pain Management Options
Natural Methods
- Breathing techniques
- Massage and counter-pressure
- Water (shower or tub)
- Movement and position changes
- Visualization and meditation
- Music and aromatherapy
Medical Options
- Epidural (most common)
- Spinal block
- Nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
- IV pain medications
- Local anesthesia
Pre-Labor Preparation
- Attend childbirth education classes
- Practice breathing and relaxation techniques
- Tour the hospital or birth center
- Pack your hospital bag by 36 weeks
- Install car seat and have it checked
- Discuss your birth plan with your provider
- Know your route to the hospital
- Have emergency contacts ready
- Prepare meals for postpartum period
- Arrange childcare for other children