A Janika Ayurveda Guide to Knowing When Your Baby Is Coming

Is this the real thing, or just another cramp?

You’re in your ninth month, maybe already packed your hospital bag, but every twinge makes you wonder: Is labour starting? Should I call the doctor? Am I ready?

At Janika Ayurveda, we believe that pregnancy care isn’t just about clinical checkups—it’s about deep understanding, trusting your body, and being prepared in a gentle, informed way. The signs of labour remain the same—but how you respond to them makes all the difference.

Here’s a grounded, real-world guide to the 14 signs of labour to help you feel calm, not confused. So you can meet your baby with clarity and strength.

Early Signs That Labour May Be Weeks or Days Away

1. The Baby Drops

This is called “lightening”—your baby moving lower into your pelvis. Breathing may feel easier, but bathroom trips might increase.

Most common in first pregnancies.

2. Frequent Urination

The baby pressing down on your bladder means you’re going more often than ever.
Pro tip: Always use the washroom before you leave home. Small steps bring big comfort.

3. Easier Breathing

With the baby now lower, your lungs have more room. Breathing becomes smoother again—even if just for a short while.

4. Increase in Vaginal Discharge

A thicker, more noticeable discharge (leukorrhea) may increase as your body prepares for delivery. It’s normal—but keep your doctor informed.

5. Cervix Begins to Dilate

Your doctor might mention you’re “1 or 2 cm dilated”—this means your cervix is slowly opening and thinning.

Dilation varies from person to person. Don’t panic if it’s slow. At Janika Ayurveda, we remind mothers that the body works at its own wise pace.

6. Cramps or Braxton Hicks Contractions

Mild period-like cramps or tightening in your abdomen could mean early labour—or just your uterus warming up.
These are common in the third trimester and may settle with rest or hydration.

7. Loose Joints

You may feel your hips or pelvic area slightly looser. That’s relaxin doing its job—making space for the baby’s passage.

8. Diarrhoea or Loose Stools

Sudden bowel movements before labour are very normal. Your body is clearing the path—quite literally.

9. Slowed or Stopped Weight Gain

You may notice your weight stabilises in the final days. It’s just your body adjusting fluid levels and activity.

10. Fatigue or Nesting Instinct

One day you’ll be exhausted. The next, you’ll want to rearrange your cupboards at midnight.
Don’t fight either feeling. Nap when you can, and pace yourself when you nest.

Signs That Labour May Begin Soon

11. Stronger, More Frequent Contractions

True labour contractions:

• Get stronger
• Last longer
• Come closer together
  And no—they don’t go away if you change positions.

12. Bloody Show

A pink or brown mucus-like discharge means your cervix is opening and the mucus plug is loosening. It’s your body’s signal that things are getting real.

13. Back Pain That Doesn’t Ease

Sharp, persistent lower back pain could be the beginning of back labour—especially if your baby is in a certain position.

14. Water Breaking

It might be a gush or just a slow trickle. It may happen before, during, or even after contractions begin.

Note: If your water breaks—call your doctor, even if there are no contractions yet.

Janika Ayurveda’s Support in This Journey

At Janika, our best pregnancy care programs in Kochi and Bangalore help you:

• Track and understand your body’s signs
  
• Learn what’s normal and what needs attention
  
• Prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically—gently and naturally
  

We combine the best of Ayurveda with modern insight to give you the best pregnancy care in Kochi and Bangalore. Our therapists, doctors, and doulas guide you through every stage—before, during, and after labour.

After Delivery? Don’t Forget Postpartum Care

Labour might end with a baby in your arms, but healing begins after.

We offer:

• Best post pregnancy care packages
  
• Herbal oils for abhyanga (massage)
  
• Pelvic care and postpartum belt to support abdominal recovery
  
• Diet plans and lactation counselling to ease you into motherhood
  

Want to support your recovery the traditional way? Buy Ayurvedic Post Partum Belt.

Final Word

Labour may not come with a loud announcement. But your body whispers before it roars.
Learn to listen, honour what you feel, and prepare gently—with guidance, not fear.

If you’re expecting soon, reach out to Janika Ayurveda for personalised support, from pre-labour to postpartum recovery.👉 Book your consultation today