Signs Of Labor

Question 1

Backache causing restlessness and need to keep changing positions

Answer 1

Possible sign

Question 2

Several soft bowel movements accompanied by flu-like sick feelings

Answer 2

Possible sign

Question 3

Cramps similar to menstrual cramps that come and go and extend to thighs, can go away and return, associated w prostaglandin action

Answer 3

Possible sign

Question 4

Unusual burst of energy and activity, nesting urge

Answer 4

Possible sign

Question 5

Nonprogressing contractions: don’t become longer, stronger, closer. Not unproductive; accomplishes ripening and effacement

Answer 5

Prelabor sign

Question 6

Water leaks; trickle not gush of fluid. Signal; occurs in 2/10 labors

Answer 6

Prelabor sign

Question 7

Mucus plug, blood tinged, “show,” continues on and off through labor; associated w cervical effacement, pink or red (brown associated w cervical exams)

Answer 7

Prelabor sign

Question 8

Progressing contractions—become longer, stronger, closer. Cannot be distracted from contractions. Abdomen or back. 12-15 in a row that are 1 minute long, 5 or fewer min apart

Answer 8

Positive sign

Question 9

Water breaking; pop or gush followed by contractions

Answer 9

Positive sign

Question 10

Water breakage cautions

Answer 10

Amount (leak vs gush)
Color (clear vs brown/green)
Odor (odorless vs foul)