Which of the following signs indicates that labor is beginning?

Regular contractions are a key indicator that labor is beginning. During the onset of labor, the body starts to prepare for childbirth through rhythmic uterine contractions that gradually increase in frequency and intensity. These contractions help to efface and dilate the cervix, facilitating the birth process.

The onset of regular contractions is a definitive sign that the labor process is initiated, as they signify that the uterus is active and working towards delivering the baby. Recognizing this pattern is crucial for expectant mothers and healthcare providers to gauge whether labor is progressing and to determine when to head to the birthing facility.

Other signs, such as weight loss, may occur as part of the body's preparatory cues or hormonal changes leading up to labor but are not direct indicators of its onset. Increased appetite is generally not associated with the beginning of labor; in fact, many women experience a decrease in appetite as they approach labor. High blood pressure is not a normal sign of labor and could indicate complications that need medical attention. Therefore, the presence of regular contractions is the most reliable sign that labor has begun.