The start of labor isn't the same for everyone. Knowing a few patterns helps you observe your body without having to be sure before asking for an assessment. While still in prenatal care, write down your reference maternity hospital and how to reach the team.
Practice contractions and progressing contractions
Practice contractions are usually irregular and may ease with rest, a change of position or hydration. In labor, they tend to get stronger, more frequent and more regular, without going away. Timing the start and duration of a few contractions helps you explain the pattern to the health service.
Brazil's official pregnancy booklet, the Caderneta Brasileira da Gestante, describes the active phase as strong, regular contractions, often every two or three minutes and lasting more than 30 seconds. This is a reference, not a universal rule: follow the individual guidance your team gives you, especially in a high-risk pregnancy or before 37 weeks.
Mucus plug and waters
Losing the mucus plug can happen before birth and, on its own, doesn't tell you how much time is left. Suspecting that your waters have broken, on the other hand, calls for contacting the service. Note the time, the amount and the color of the fluid, without inserting anything into the vagina; green or yellowish fluid needs an assessment.
When not to wait at home
Seek an assessment if you have vaginal bleeding, reduced baby movements, fever, intense and continuous pain, shortness of breath, a severe headache or changes in vision. Contractions or fluid loss before 37 weeks should also be assessed. If something seems different from what was agreed in prenatal care, call or go to the service — you don't need to be sure to be examined.