As pregnancy approaches its final stage and the body begins to show signs that labour may be starting, contacting the delivery unit is usually the first step. A single sign does not determine the start of labour. Instead, the assessment is based on several pieces of information. During the call, you are usually asked to describe how contractions have developed, whether the water has released, and whether there have been any other changes such as bleeding or concern about fetal movements. The call is not used to confirm labour, but to decide whether an examination is needed.

The staff may ask how often contractions are coming, how long they last, and whether they have changed over time. If the water has released, they may ask about the time and appearance of the fluid. The information is documented and used to decide whether to come in for assessment. The assessment also considers how far the pregnancy has progressed, previous examinations and if there are any medical factors that need follow-up.

Sometimes you may be asked to come to the delivery unit even if active labour has not begun. During such an assessment, fetal heartbeat, contractions, fetal position and cervical status may be examined. If everything is stable and labour has not started, you may go home again. The findings are documented in the medical record and used at later assessments.

Contacting the delivery unit therefore does not automatically mean admission, but allows healthcare staff to make an initial medical assessment and plan the next step.

Alma’s tips 🌿

• It can be helpful to note when contractions started and how they have changed.

• You can ask what information is useful to provide when calling the delivery unit.

• If you are assessed but sent home, you can ask how the information is recorded for later visits.