When to call your midwife or doctor

Your care team may give you a timing pattern to watch for. Follow their instructions first, because your health history, pregnancy week, and local birth plan matter.

Timing can help the call

Share the start time, duration, and spacing of recent contractions. Also mention fluid leaking, bleeding, pain level, baby movement, fever, or anything that worries you.

Call sooner for warning signs

Contact your provider or emergency services right away for heavy bleeding, severe pain, reduced fetal movement, fever, fainting, seizures, green or brown fluid, or preterm contractions.

Supportive information only. This article cannot diagnose labor or replace guidance from your doctor, midwife, doula, hospital, or local emergency service.