In the final stage of pregnancy, between weeks 38 and 40, a series of signs indicate that labor is approaching. The most characteristic sign that labor is about to begin is the breaking of the waters. This occurs when the amniotic sac, which contains the fluid surrounding the baby throughout pregnancy, ruptures.
If the fluid is clear or transparent, there is no problem; everything is normal. However, if the expelled fluid is dark, it is best to go to the hospital as soon as possible, because the baby may have passed its first stool, known as meconium. If this happens, the baby may inhale the fluid, which could lead to fetal distress
Read the full article on: What are the symptoms that indicate the onset of labor? ( 68).
By Marta Barranquero Gómez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist), Rafael Collazos Robles M.D. (gynecologist) and Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 09/25/2025
