
Am I ready to give birth? Signs of labour checklist
Am I ready to give birth? Signs of labour checklist
You probably think it’ll be obvious when you go into labour, but it isn’t always what you see in the movies. Here are a few signs of labour to look out for.
Author(s): Danial Ahmad
Checklist
- Regular contractions or tightenings. They might feel like really intense period pains.
- Backache — contractions don’t just happen in the bump area.
- Mucus or jelly-like stuff in your panties — this is called a “show”.
- A sudden urge to use the restroom. This is caused by your child’s head pressing down on your bowel.
- Your waters breaking. This might not happen before labour. But if it does call the hospital ASAP.
- Call the hospital ASAP if you’re unsure or worried about anything. For example, if you’re bleeding or your child is moving less than usual.
- Don’t forget to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go! See our checklist of essentials to include.
Related articles

Your maternity leave and maternity pay checklist
It might seem a while away, but once you’ve made your pregnancy announcement, it’s a good idea to begin maternity leave preparations and find out if you’re entitled to maternity pay.
2 mins to read

What to pack in your hospital bag
Time to think about what to pack for your new child — including that special going-home outfit — and for yourself, as well as what you might need for breastfeeding.
Shen-Li Tan
3 mins to read

How to emotionally prepare for parenthood before becoming a mom
Amazing news! You’re expecting your first child. But what can you do to emotionally prepare for parenthood?
3 mins to read

Working mom woes? Follow our tips for going back to work after giving birth
If your family finances demand that you’re to become a working mom, you’re more than likely planning your return to work while navigating a rollercoaster of emotions — from feeling guilty and anxio
3 mins to read

Planning a diaper party checklist
A new arrival is definitely an excuse for a party. Whether friends or family are planning a diaper party for you, or you’re doing it yourself, here are some diaper party ideas to get you started.
2 mins to read

7 Changes During Pregnancy
You lament, “I’m not myself anymore!” With a blossoming belly, comes crazy physical changes.
4 mins to read

Getting your child's nursery ready
Preparing your child’s nursery is a fun job to do before your bundle of joy arrives. Here’s a nursery list to help get them settled in at home.
Shen-Li Tan
2 mins to read

How to Cope with First Trimester Anxiety
Suffering from first trimester anxiety? You’re not alone, 1 in 10 pregnant women experience this pregnancy symptom in their first trimester. Here’s how to keep the feelings under control.
2 mins to read

The 6 Best Apps for Couples in Pregnancy Mode
We’ve tracked down 6 apps to help you and your partner make the most out of this exciting stage in your life.
1 min to read

Children’s names help
Need children’s names inspiration? Here comes the fun bit! You may already have a favourite, or perhaps you’re waiting until you meet junior face-to-face.
2 mins to read

Discover The Beautiful Journey of Pregnancy
Find out how your baby grows, week by week, through the process of pregnancy. Subscribe to our Nestlé Start Well Stay Well YouTube channel now!
Danial Ahmad, Author
1 min to read

3-Week pregnant: Development and diet
You’re at the very beginning of the journey. You can’t see anything yet, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a whole lot going on.
Danial Ahmad, Author
3 mins to read

21-Week pregnant: Development and diet
Though the foetus now weighs around half a kilo, your little darling still has plenty of room in your belly. And likes to use it when not asleep! Read more about this week.
3 mins to read

37-Week pregnant: Development and diet
Your little one tends to keep his head down, arms crossed, and legs folded up on his chest as there’s not much room to move around. He’ll be very glad to get out and stretch!
Danial Ahmad, Author
3 mins to read

Working out your birth plan
Giving birth is less daunting if you have an easy birth plan in mind to help the day go as smoothly as possible. See our birth plan guide below.
2 mins to read

3 Tips to Reduce Stress for Mothers
The journey of motherhood is a joyful adventure with ups and downs. Though it is rewarding, there are times when you will feel stressed.
3 mins to read

8 Inspiring Parenthood Hits to Watch Together
Pregnancy and new parenthood are a natural part of life but they do not always come naturally. It can seem surreal.
Shen-Li Tan
3 mins to read

16-Week pregnant: Development and Diet
If you could see inside yourself and watch your growing child finally fidgeting with his limbs, you might soon see him sucking his thumb in your tummy! Read more about this week.
2 mins to read

32-Week pregnant: Development and diet
Your little darling is still developing as you head into the final lap, but it’s mostly perfecting and polishing from here on out. He or she is getting ready to meet you!
Danial Ahmad, Author
2 mins to read
Related tools
Ovulation calendar
Determine when you are likely to ovulate can improve your chances of conceiving.
Pregnancy week
Find out what changes you can expect in your body, your emotions, your life and your little one.