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 ...

Labor starts when your body and your baby send signals that it's time for birth. Hormones play a big role in preparing your body for labor, including softening the cervix. Common signs of labor ...

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.

Medically reviewed by Kiarra King, M.D. As you approach your due date, you can expect to have lots of feelings. You may be excited, nervous, and more than a little uncomfortable. But which sensations ...

Here's what happens during each stage of labor – from how long each stage lasts to what you might feel. Labor happens in three stages — early labor and dilation, pushing and delivery, and finally, ...