Learn the Early Signs of & Delivery

Labor & Delivery Signs of labor Learn the early signs of labor, find out how you'll know labor has started, and know when to ...

Labor & Delivery

Signs of labor

Learn the early signs of labor, find out how you'll know labor has started, and know when to call the hospital.

The stages of labor

Find out what happens during the three stages of labor, how long each stage lasts, what it feels like, and how you can manage the pain of labor and birth.

Braxton Hicks contractions

Learn what Braxton Hicks contractions feel like, how they’re different from true labor, ways to ease pain and discomfort, and when to call your doctor.

Inducing labor

Find out why it may be necessary to induce labor, the techniques that are used, the risks of induction, and the scoop on do-it-yourself methods.

Water breaking: What it feels like

When your water breaks, is it a gush or a trickle? Moms share what it really feels like.

Labor: What it feels like

Moms share their detailed descriptions of what labor really feels like.

Childbirth class: Free video series

Prepare for labor and delivery with BabyCenter’s online childbirth class.

Childbirth: What to pack for the hospital or birth center

Use this essential checklist to prepare for labor and pack a bag for yourself, your partner, and your baby to bring to the hospital or birth center.