These Three Intense Signs Can Mean Your Baby Is Almost Here originally appeared on Christine Keys.

These 3 signs were something I experienced shortly before I gave birth to both of my babies. They are not unique to me alone and can certainly mean that your little one will be on their way soon.

None could rightfully dispute that labour and delivery are not intense.

I would even go as far as to say it's almost like an outer body experience.

It is beautiful and challenging.

So challenging.

I remember feeling completely out of control and yet completely in control all at the same time. It sounds confusing and contradictory, I know, but I'm sure there are mamas out there that can relate.

And while all those intense feelings are going on, you might be wondering how things are going.

Obviously, every woman is different, but the three things I'm going to talk about today are documented signs that women experience during labour.

They were definitely all things that I experienced during both of my natural deliveries.

1) Nausea

This was a key indicator for me that things were about to step up a notch.

Right before I entered the transition stage of labour I would get nauseous. If you find yourself in the same position then don't fret.

It is a normal sign and a positive one at that!

It isn't pleasant, but it means that your body is preparing for your baby's arrival. If you do feel as though you're going to be sick, be sure to say something to someone, so they can help you.

In my case I often barely feel nauseous, instead, I just get a sudden feeling that I'm going to throw up. Hence why it is so important to say something.

With my first, I ended up being sick all over the foyer of the hospital. In truth, I didn't care at all at the time but it would have been nice for the staff to not have to deal with it.

The Reason:

Why does it happen? Well, the reasons vary, but often times it is because of the extreme pain your body is coping with. Digestion also ceases during labour so your food is just sitting in your stomach.

Over on the website Parents, they explain that vomiting during labour can also be a side effect of epidurals.

Regardless of the reason, it is typically a sign that things are progressing. The pain during transition is so incredibly intense that it's no wonder a woman's body struggles to multi-task!

2) Pressure

I didn't feel too much pressure until the end of my first labour, but with my second I felt pressure fairly early on.

I know it is a strange and intense feeling, but once again, take it as a positive sign. Your baby is making his/her way down and getting in the correct position to be born.

This post by Baby Center is very informative about what labour might feel like.

I distinctly remember feeling my daughter moving down while I was having a HUGE contraction. It was both weird and rewarding all at the same time.

Don't fight it no matter how foreign a sensation it is. Half the battle of labour is letting go and allowing your body to do what it was created to.

Read about how to prepare your mind for childbirth --> HERE.

If that pressure turns into a sensation to push then I would for definitely advise being in the place that you want to give birth! No one knows exactly how long it will take you to push your baby out, but it's best to be prepared.

3) Feeling Like You Just Can't Do It Anymore

I've been there. Twice.

It is hard.

You look at the clock and wonder how much longer it can go on for. The contractions are now unbearable and you are tired. Your coping mechanisms aren't doing the job any more and you are just so ready for it to all be over.

Women often feel like this once they reach the stage of labour known as transition. It is by far the most intense and challenging stage to get through.

It's amazing what the human body can accomplish when necessary. Adrenaline is a very powerful thing!

Now, this isn't a blanket rule for all, but generally speaking (and from my experience) when that thought crosses your mind it is a GOOD thing.

When you feel like you just can't do it anymore it often means it's because you won't have to for much longer.

For me personally, not long after I was at that stage my body was ready to push and my babies were born within 15-20 minutes.

Childbirth is one of the most unique experiences on earth. No one can say exactly what will happen and when.

I know what it's like to be scrambling for any sign that'll tell you how and when things will happen. As someone that likes to plan and prepare it can be incredibly challenging to just let go and allow things to happen in their own time.

I hope you find this encouraging! Labour is one of the most beautiful experiences I have been through. There is nothing else that has made me feel so powerful and vulnerable all at the same time.

I know that it isn't feasibly possible, but I do genuinely wish that all women are able to experience the same sense of empowerment.

Until next time!