A key indicator that labor is approaching is?

The key indicator that labor is approaching is lightening of the abdomen. This phenomenon, also known as "dropping," occurs when the fetus descends into the pelvis in preparation for birth. As the baby settles lower, many pregnant individuals experience a noticeable change in their abdomen, which may feel lighter or less pressured on the diaphragm. This shift can often make breathing easier and change how the mother perceives her body, sometimes allowing her to see more of her toes.

Lightening typically happens a few weeks before labor begins and serves as a crucial sign that the body is getting ready for the birthing process. This readiness can also involve various other physiological changes that prepare both the mother and the baby for delivery. While other symptoms like loss of appetite, increased energy, or irregular contractions may occur at different times during pregnancy or early labor, lightening specifically signifies that the baby is moving toward the birth canal, marking a significant step in the approach of labor.