In pre-labor or early labor (the latent phase), you may have: • Persistent lower back pain or abdominal pain, with a pre-menstrual feeling and cramps. • Painful contractions or tightening that may be irregular in strength and frequency, and may stop and start. • Broken waters. Your membranes may rupture with a gush or a trickle of amniotic fluid. Although this can happen long before labor starts, you should still call your maternity unit to let them know. • A brownish or blood-tinged mucus discharge (bloody show). If you pass the mucus plug that blocks the cervix, labor could start soon, or in a few days. It s a sign that things are moving along. • An upset tummy or loose bowels. Hope I have answered your question. Have a safe and easy delivery!