As your due date approaches, it's common to wonder if every little twinge you're experiencing is a sign of early labor. For example, is cramping a sign of labor? What about nausea or lower back pain?

Key Takeaways Labor is a gradual process. Early signs of labor include your baby dropping, losing your mucus plug, and experiencing stronger Braxton Hicks contractions – though all of that can happen ...

You have timed twinges, changed positions and wondered if that was a contraction or just your burrito. As the big day approaches, your body often sends a few consistent signals that labor is gearing ...

If your contractions come regularly every 5 to 10 minutes, it's time to call your doctor. Watch for signs like your water breaking or bloody vaginal discharge, which indicate labor might be starting.

Delivering a baby is hard work. Aptly named labor, the process before childbirth can be physically and emotionally taxing — and even painful. While no two patients experience labor and delivery the ...