When to Call the Hospital
Sometimes the mother’s waters break quite early in this process, and some of the fluid from the womb escape. This liquid is usually colorless and it is sterile. So while it may be uncomfortable if the mother is out shopping at the time, no harm is done. It shows that labor is near, but again how near will not be certain. Another sign is a “show,” when the plug of jelly which has kept the cervix sealed up is ejected, sometimes with a little blood. This means that the cervix is “ripe,” and it is a good sign, although it can happen some days, or even longer, before labor starts, or even after it has started. If your waters break, or you have regular contractions, you should call or go to the hospital or contact your doctor if you are planning a home birth.