Are you really, really in labor?

One of the most common questions that I get asked as a childbirth educator and doula is how will you really know if you're in labor. It's not fair to tell people the standard: "You'll know." That only stressed me out more. How do you quantify that? Here are a few ways to help you know it's the real thing.

Someone forward you this email? No Sweat! Sign up here to get your own If you're having trouble viewing this email, click here Follow Us Are you really, really in labor? One of the most common questions that I get asked as a childbirth educator and doula is how will you really know if you're in labor. It's not fair to tell people the standard: "You'll know." That only stressed me out more. How do you quantify that? Here are a few ways to help you know it's the real thing. Robin Elise Weiss, LCCE Pregnancy & Childbirth Expert 6 Ways to Tell You're in Labor   Believe it or not, figuring out if you're in labor is not all about contractions (Though that is a part of it!). Here are a few things you may notice before the baby comes. READ NOW Is Dilation a Sign of Impending Birth?   So you had an exam at your prenatal appointment and your doctor or midwife gave you the news that you were already starting to dilate - what does that really mean in terms of labor? READ NOW Why Do Some Women Get a Burst of Energy Before Labor?   Have you ever heard that some women get a burst of energy before labor? Sometimes this is called nesting.  READ NOW How to Tell When You're Really in Labor   Here's a handy quiz to take if you still aren't sure if you're in labor or not. This gets into a bit more detail. READ NOW Featured Articles • Abs are Made in the Crock Pot • Make ahead and come home to the delicious smell of slow cooked chili • Five Food Strategies You Can Do Right Now to Reach Your Fitness Goals • If I Have a Hysterectomy, Will I Go Through Menopause? • Got Knee Pain? Here's How to Keep Exercising • Is Marijuana Effective for Treating Rheumatic Diseases? • Use Your Crockpot All Year! Our Season by Season Guide. • What Are the Warning Signs of Suicide? Advertisement About Pregnancy & Childbirth  |  Follow Us You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the Pregnancy & Childbirth newsletter. If you wish to unsubscribe, please click here 1500 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY, 10036 © 2015 About.com - All rights reserved. Privacy Policy.