What is a common sign of labor?

Regular uterine contractions that intensify over time are the hallmark sign of true labour. These contractions are rhythmic tightenings of the uterine muscles that gradually become more frequent, longer in duration, and stronger in intensity as labour progresses.

True labour contractions are distinguished from Braxton Hicks (false labour) contractions by several features:

• They occur at regular, increasingly shorter intervals.
• They grow progressively stronger rather than staying the same or fading.
• They do not go away with rest, position changes, or hydration.
• They are typically felt in the lower back and radiate to the front of the abdomen.

The other options are not reliable indicators of true labour:

• Decreased fetal heart rate is not a normal sign of labour onset; it may indicate fetal distress and requires medical attention.
• Nausea and vomiting can occur during labour but are not a primary or defining sign. They can also be caused by many unrelated conditions.
• Increased fetal movement is not a characteristic sign of labour onset. In fact, some women report slightly reduced movement as the baby settles into position for delivery.