Symptoms of Labor

Symptoms of labor can begin in the form of the bloody show. As bleeding during pregnancy typically carries a negative connotation, it can be a difficult adjustment to view blood loss as a normal sign that labor is soon to begin.

The bloody show is usually a product of the cervix dilation and/or stretching. Maternal blood volume increases significantly during pregnancy, which can cause occasional spotting from broken capillaries on the cervix. Some spotting after an internal check is also normal and occurs for the same reason. A bit of blood may also accompany the loss of the mucus plug.

It is important to note that there should not be a great quantity of blood. It should be no more than spotting even though it may be bright red. Constant dripping is not associated with the bloody show. If you are concerned about bleeding during your pregnancy or in the initial stages of labor, check with your health care provider to ensure it is within the range of normal.

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