As your due date is fast approaching, you probably feel excited, worried and a little scared at the same time. All these emotions are normal for an expectant mother, but to avoid all the negative feelings, you should know what you’re up against.

What are the signs of labor, exactly? When will it happen? How long will it last?
All these questions may be crowding your mind right now. Labor and delivery signals the end of your pregnancy with your baby finally leaving the uterus. It is common knowledge that childbirth entails pain - so much of it. But it helps a lot if you know what to expect before, during and after labor.

Loss of mucus plug.
When the mucus plug comes out, it is a sign that your cervix is about to dilate. It can be clear or tinged with pink, red or brown.

Membranes rupture.
The amniotic sac covering your baby has finally ruptured. This is your water breaking - a sign that labor is imminent! Your bag of water is a clear odorless liquid.

Regular, frequent contractions.
By now, you know what Braxton Hicks contractions are. True contractions are nothing like your Braxton Hicks - if they are becoming more frequent and painful every few minutes and hit to the back and hips, you could be giving birth in a few hours.

As you rush to the hospital, your doctor or midwife will be performing regular internal examinations. A gloved finger will be inserted into your vagina to assess the how dilated (open) or effaced (thin) your cervix is. A fully effaced and 100% dilated cervix means your baby is ready to be delivered.

Unfortunately, the process of labor is different for every woman. Some go into labor for as short as four hours, while others last all throughout the day! If labor isn’t progressing or if the pregnant mother or baby goes into distress, a cesarean section may be indicated.