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Signs of labor: Know what to expect
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Effacement: Thinning of the cervix
Dilation: Opening of the cervix
Increase in vaginal discharge
Nesting: Spurt of energy
Feeling the baby has dropped lower
Rupture of membranes: Your water breaks
Contractions: When labor pains begin
Expect false alarms
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In the movies, babies are often born quickly and in dramatic fashion. The mother doubles over from the pain of a single contraction and suddenly the baby appears. In reality, however, labor usually takes time — and the early signs of labor can be subtle. Here's what you need to know about the common signs of labor.
