Which of the following is a sign that labor may be starting?

• A. Bloody show
• B. Constipation
• C. Weight gain
• D. Backache

Answer: (A)

Bloody show signals that labor may be starting. As the cervix begins to efface and dilate, the mucus plug that seals the cervical canal is expelled. This plug contains small blood vessels, so when it exits, it often appears as blood-tinged mucus. It’s a common early indicator that the cervix is changing in preparation for labor and can occur hours to days before contractions become regular or membranes rupture.

Constipation, weight gain, and backache can occur during late pregnancy or with other conditions, but they are not reliable signs that labor has begun.