Here are some general guidelines to help you decide when it’s time to go:
1. Regular Contractions
Timing: Go to the hospital when your contractions are regular and follow the 5-1-1 rule:
5 minutes apart (contractions occur every 5 minutes).
1 minute long (each contraction lasts about 60 seconds).
1 hour (this pattern has continued for at least an hour).
Intensity: If the contractions are strong enough that you can no longer talk through them or walk comfortably, it’s a sign that active labour is beginning.
For second or subsequent pregnancies, labour can progress faster, so you may want to go to the hospital when contractions are 7-10 minutes apart.
2. Water Breaking (Rupture of Membranes)
If your water breaks, head to the hospital, even if you’re not having contractions. There’s a risk of infection after your water breaks, and your healthcare provider will want to monitor you and your baby.
Large gush of fluid or a steady trickle of amniotic fluid are both signs that your water has broken.
If the fluid is greenish or brown (indicating meconium, or the baby’s first stool), you should go to the hospital immediately as this can be a sign of fetal distress.
3. Bleeding
Heavy bleeding, similar to a period, is a cause for immediate concern, and you should go to the hospital immediately. Light spotting or a “bloody show” (mucus plug tinged with blood) is normal as the cervix dilates but shouldn’t be heavy.
4. Decreased Fetal Movement
If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movement or kicks, contact your healthcare provider and head to the hospital. Reduced movement could be a sign of distress and needs to be evaluated.
5. Severe Pain or Discomfort
If you experience sudden or severe pain that is different from regular contractions (such as sharp, constant pain), this may signal a complication, and you should go to the hospital immediately.
6. Multiple Pregnancies or High-Risk Pregnancy
If you are expecting twins or multiples, or have a high-risk pregnancy, your healthcare provider may advise you to go to the hospital earlier, even if your contractions aren’t following the 5-1-1 rule.
7. Preterm Labour
If you are less than 37 weeks pregnant and experience signs of labour (regular contractions, water breaking, etc.), go to the hospital immediately. This could indicate preterm labour, which requires urgent medical attention.
Additional Considerations
Distance to the Hospital: If you live far from the hospital or birthing center, it’s a good idea to go earlier to avoid a rushed or stressful trip.
Previous Labour History: If you’ve had very fast labours in the past, or if your healthcare provider has indicated you might have a quick delivery, go to the hospital as soon as labour begins.
Call Ahead: It’s a good idea to call the hospital or your healthcare provider once labour begins to let them know you’re on your way or ask for advice if you’re unsure.
Summary
Go to the hospital when:
Contractions are 5 minutes apart, lasting 1 minute, and continuing for 1 hour.
Water breaks, even if you aren’t having contractions.
You experience heavy bleeding or abnormal pain.
You notice reduced fetal movement.
You’re in preterm labour (before 37 weeks).
If you’re unsure, it’s always better to call your doctor or midwife for guidance.
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