As your due date is near, you must be wondering how to check if your body is ready for labor or not, particularly if you’re opting for a natural delivery. Dr. Avhad Hospital’s philosophy is that if you know what your body’s natural indications are, you’ll be able to choose your path of delivery fearlessly and intelligently. Each woman is unique, but there are certain sure signs that your body is getting ready for a natural labor.
The following are the top 7 Signs that your body is getting ready for a natural birth:
- Lightning or "Baby Dropping": You can expect your labor to be near if your baby drops down into your pelvis, a phenomenon referred to as "lightning." It may happen some weeks before delivery, particularly if you are giving birth for the first time. You will feel more pressure in your pelvic region and less pain down below your ribs. It usually results in easier breathing and a visible change in your baby bump's position.
- Greater Pelvic Pressure: After your baby has dropped, greater pelvic pressure and even heaviness are to be anticipated. That is a sign that your body is preparing itself for a vaginal delivery. You may also feel more pain in your thighs or lower back as the head of your baby positions itself.
- Discharge of the Mucus Plug: Your cervix forms a thick mucus plug to close your uterus infection-free during pregnancy. As labor nears, the cervix starts to open and soften, and pushes out the plug. It might be discharged in one whole piece or as increased discharge, which is often streaked with blood, known as the "bloody show."
- Effacement and Dilation of the Cervix: During prenatal exams, your physician will examine your cervix for dilation (opening) and effacement (thinning). Both are essential for normal delivery. Though both changes can start days or even weeks before active labor, progressive dilation and effacement are comforting signs that your body is ready to deliver.
- More Intensive and More Frequent Braxton Hicks Contractions: Braxton Hicks contractions are infrequent "practice" contractions that are employed to strengthen the uterus. They can be more intense, more frequent, and even sharper as they near labor. Unlike actual contractions of labor, they tend to disappear with exercise or consuming water.
- Nesting Instinct: Feeling an unexpected surge of energy and the extreme desire to clean, tidy up, or ready your house for the baby? That is the nesting instinct—another indication that your body and mind are preparing for labor. It is a natural response because the birth is already near.
- Regular Labor Contractions: True labor contractions are rhythmic, stronger, and more regular in rhythm. They do not decrease with rest and progressively cause cervical changes. This is one of the strongest indicators that your body is ready to begin the natural birth process.
Your Natural Birth Journey Starts Here
Conclusion
Understanding the signs that your body is ready for natural birth can help reduce anxiety and increase confidence. From baby dropping to real labor contractions, these cues are your body’s way of preparing for one of life’s most powerful experiences. If you’re approaching your due date or have questions about natural childbirth, book a consultation at Dr. Avhad Hospital today, where your comfort and safety come first.
