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.

Note: Before you get too excited, remember that many of these signs and symptoms can arrive weeks before labor starts. They don't mean labor is about to happen, but can just reflect the reality of ...