Collection
Preparing for Labor & Birth
Late-pregnancy signs, contractions, full term and when to head in — everything for the final weeks.
Guides in this collection
- Guide
38 Weeks Pregnant: What to Expect (and What to Watch For)
At 38 weeks you’re nearly full term. Here’s what’s normal, the early signs labor may be near, and the warning signs that mean you should call your provider.
Jun 2, 2026 · 4 min read Read more → - Guide
Signs Labor Is Approaching: Early Signs of Labor
Lightening, the mucus plug, stronger Braxton Hicks, nesting — here are the early signs labor is approaching, and how to tell when labor has truly started.
Jun 2, 2026 · 4 min read Read more → - Guide
Braxton Hicks vs Real Contractions: How to Tell the Difference
Braxton Hicks are irregular practice contractions that ease with rest. Real labor contractions get longer, stronger and closer together. Here is how to tell them apart.
Jun 2, 2026 · 4 min read Read more → - Guide
When Is a Baby Considered Full Term?
Full term is 39 0/7–40 6/7 weeks, but babies born 37–42 weeks are generally considered term. Here are the term categories and what they mean for your due date.
Jun 2, 2026 · 3 min read Read more → - Guide
When to Go to the Hospital in Labor (the 5-1-1 Rule)
How to know when to go to the hospital in labor: the 5-1-1 contraction rule, plus the warning signs that mean go in or call right away — at any hour.
Jun 2, 2026 · 4 min read Read more → - Guide
How to Time Contractions (and When to Go to the Hospital)
How to time contractions in labour: measuring duration and frequency, the 5-1-1 rule, telling real labour from Braxton Hicks, and knowing when to go in.
May 31, 2026 · 5 min read Read more → - Guide
How to Count Baby Kicks (and Why Movements Matter)
A simple guide to counting baby kicks in pregnancy — when to start, how to count to 10, what is normal, and when reduced movements mean you should call.
May 31, 2026 · 5 min read Read more → - Guide
What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag: The Calm Checklist
A no-stress guide to what to actually pack in your hospital bag for you, your baby, and your partner — plus what to skip and when to have it ready.
Feb 2, 2026 · 5 min read Read more → - Guide
When Should You Pack Your Hospital Bag?
Aim to have your hospital bag packed by around 36 weeks — earlier if you’re expecting twins or at risk of early labour. Here’s exactly when and how to be ready.
May 30, 2026 · 5 min read Read more →
Helpful tools
Contraction Timer
Time your contractions and see the pattern — frequency and duration at a glance.
Open tool →Baby Kick Counter
Count your baby’s movements and time how long 10 kicks take.
Open tool →Hospital Bag Checklist
Build a personalized packing list for the big day — and print it.
Open tool →Due Date Calculator
Find your estimated due date from your last period or conception date.
Open tool →