In 60 seconds
Your short plan for this week
If labour may be starting, time several contractions and note whether they strengthen, lengthen and continue despite rest or a change of activity.
Keep all scheduled checks even when you feel ready to give birth; due-date proximity does not replace blood-pressure, growth or movement review.
Do not wait for perfectly regular contractions if there is reduced movement, fresh bleeding, severe constant pain or concerning fluid colour.
What you may notice
Your body and how you may feel
Pressure, discharge and irregular contractions may change; leaking fluid, bleeding or reduced movement need prompt contact.
What is happening
Baby’s development this week
The baby continues gaining weight and practising the reflexes needed after birth.
Plain-language examples
What this means in real life
Early labour can start and stop. The maternity service can use your pattern, pregnancy history and other symptoms to advise the next step.
A short checklist
What to do now
- If labour may be starting, time several contractions and note whether they strengthen, lengthen and continue despite rest or a change of activity.
- Discuss birth preferences, feeding support and early recovery.
- Notice your baby's usual movement pattern and act promptly on a clear change.
Pause and check
What not to do—or what to ask first
- Do not wait for perfectly regular contractions if there is reduced movement, fresh bleeding, severe constant pain or concerning fluid colour.
What may be coming up
Appointments, tests and decisions
Keep all scheduled checks even when you feel ready to give birth; due-date proximity does not replace blood-pressure, growth or movement review.
For the support person
One useful thing a partner can do
- Offer food, drinks, quiet and reassurance in early labour while staying ready to call or travel when advised.
Contact your care team
Contact your doctor or maternity team promptly
Some concerns need advice before the next routine appointment even when they do not feel like an emergency. If a symptom becomes severe, sudden or frightening, use urgent care instead.
See when to contact careUrgent or emergency
Urgent signs during pregnancy or within a year after birth
Get medical care immediately for these symptoms. The list is not exhaustive; if something feels seriously wrong, seek help.
Open urgent warning signs