The early stages of labor can be filled with a range of emotions for expecting mothers including pain and uncertainty. Preparing yourself for the unexpected — to the best of your ability — and ...

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.

Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and usually not painful. More frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions can signal that real contractions are coming soon ...