If any of the following signs happen call your doctor and head to the hospital immediately:
- Contractions in your lower abdomen which increase in strength and frequency. The interval between contractions decreases from 30 min to 15 min to 10 min and then less and usually becomes more felt in the lower abdomen. Each contraction lasts from 30-70 seconds.
- Pressure and heaviness in your lower abdomen with the urge to pee.
- Expulsion of a brownish mucus discharge (THE SHOW: mucus which closed the cervix during pregnancy, thus denoting the starting of cervical opening and dilation)
- Water flowing out of your vagina.
Scientific Update (October 2026)
This chapter was first published in 2018 as part of the Prenatal Care Book, and has been reviewed and updated according to the latest guidelines. Key updates:
- Go to hospital immediately if your waters break, you have bleeding, reduced fetal movements or severe headache, even without contractions.
- In a first labour, it is usually advised to go in when contractions come every 5 minutes, last a minute, for an hour.
References: NICE intrapartum care (NG235), WHO recommendations on intrapartum care (2018).
International Guidelines
In line with global standards, Dr. Sabry follows the latest recommendations from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG). Thus, patients receive care that is safe, ethical, and evidence-based.
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Why Choose Dr. Ashraf Sabry?
Dr. Ashraf Sabry, consultant in obstetrics, gynecology, fertility, and aesthetic gynecology, is recognized among the best OBGYN and fertility specialists in Cairo. With over 20 years of experience, he combines science and compassion to provide world-class care. Book your appointment now through the contact page here or Whatsapp us or call us on +201022224442