Understanding contractions: when to head to the maternity unit

While awaiting baby's arrival, many expectant parents have questions about contractions — in particular, when to go to the maternity unit. It is important to recognise the different types of contractions and to know when the time has come to set off. In this article, we cover the key points to help you determine the right moment to leave.

The different phases of contractions

To understand contractions properly, it helps to be familiar with the different stages that precede birth:

Irregular contractions: these generally begin a few weeks before labour. They are mild and unpredictable.

Pre-labour: this is a phase in which contractions begin to become more regular, but are not yet strong enough to dilate the cervix.

Active labour: this phase begins when the cervix has dilated sufficiently and contractions become intense and frequent.

Delivery of the baby: this is the birth itself.

Recognising the different types of contractions

There are two main types of contractions:

Braxton Hicks contractions: these are practice contractions, generally painless and irregular. They prepare the uterus for labour.

Labour contractions: these contractions bring about the dilation of the cervix and the delivery of the baby at term. They are intense, regular, and painful, and gradually increase in strength.

Learning to listen to your body

To know when to head to the maternity unit, it is essential to pay attention to the signals your body is sending you. Some mothers may experience relatively mild contractions, whilst others feel intense pain from the very first ones. Learning to listen to your body and noting the frequency, intensity, and duration of contractions will help you better determine the right time to leave.

Timing your contractions

The most common method for measuring the frequency of contractions is to count the minutes between the start of one contraction and the start of the next. You can use a mobile app, a watch, or a stopwatch to measure this interval. Contractions that are gradually getting closer together indicate that birth is approaching.

When should you go to the maternity unit?

There is no universal answer to this question, as every woman and every birth is different. However, here are some signs that may help you identify when it is time to head in:

Contractions are regular and close together (approximately every 5 minutes).

Each contraction lasts at least 1 minute.

Contractions are becoming more intense and do not ease off, even if you change position or walk around.

You notice unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding.

Your waters have broken.

Do not hesitate to call your doctor or the maternity unit if you are unsure. They will be able to advise you and put your mind at rest about what to do.

Packing your hospital bag

To be ready on the day, it is a good idea to pack a bag with everything you will need for the birth and your stay at the maternity unit. You can start gathering these items from your 7th month of pregnancy, so that you are prepared in case of an unexpected early departure.

Here are the essentials to include in your bag:

Your personal and medical documents (ID, health insurance card, medical notes, scan images, etc.)

Comfortable clothing for labour

Non-slip shoes and socks

Suitable underwear for breastfeeding and maternity sanitary protection

Outfits for baby's first days (sleepsuits, adjustable-waist vests, etc.)

Clothing for leaving the maternity unit (sleeping bag, blanket, or nest, etc.)

A car seat that meets current safety standards for the journey home

In short, being able to recognise the different types of contractions and paying attention to the signals your body sends you will help you make the decision to set off for the maternity unit.