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Q&A: What are signs of labor?

What are signs that I’m going into labor? How can I tell the difference between the real thing and a false alarm?

Re: What are signs that I’m going into labor? How can I tell the difference between the real thing and a false alarm?

The Bump Expert

You've been anticipating this moment for the last nine months; no wonder you're worried about missing the early signs of labor. How will you know when it’s time to grab your hospital bag and get to the delivery room? Look for these signs of imminent labor: Blood-tinged discharge, expulsion of the mucus plug, rupturing of the amniotic sac (aka water breaking), and regular contractions (five minutes apart). Many women also experience a certain nesting instinct as labor approaches. If you find yourself with a sudden burst of energy and the need to clean and scrub your house spotless, baby may be on the way!

False labor pains are easy to confuse with the real labor signs but they do have some distinct characteristics. If the contractions are irregular, centered in your lower abdomen or don't worsen over time, it might be a false alarm. Try changing position or walking around -- does the pain recede a little? Probably not the real thing. True contractions are regular, have an obvious increase and decrease during fetal activity, and are centered in your pelvic area. Don't spend too much time analyzing, though -- if you think you're in the early stages of labor, pick up the phone and call your doctor.

Want to know more? Our experts have the answers to your labor and delivery questions.

watch: more on the signs of labor

> Think you're in labor now? Time your contractions with our Contraction Counter tool.

The Bump Editors

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

true labour contractions will not subside if you move around, like braxton hicks do. Also, true labour contractions will grow stronger, get longer, and become closer together.

shelagh_dooley@hotmail.com |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

It's definitely hard to identify rel labor pains if this is your first...I was in the hospital yesterday and was having 2-4 minute contractions but no dialiation for over 3 hours and then into the evening after they sent me home. I am finding that it's hard to judge the intesity of the pain right now...prior to going into "real" labor. I'll be interested to make the comparison post-labor.

katielea17 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

true labor contractions is a sharp pain in the center of your pelvic area when you can't talk laugh or even walk that's when you know it's a true one.

pindera8706 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm almost 34 weeks pregnant and I go to the doctor tomorrow for my 4th ultra sound & check up. My baby has been moving soooo much the past few days, I get sharp pains a little below my bellybutton every now and then, lower back pains is nothing new and I have a lot of discharge which I'm wondering if thats normal... does this sound like BH contractions?? I cant wait to hear what the dr says tomorrow

garraya |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Real contractions arent always clear, especially if you have a high tolerence for pain. I had back labor with my daughter and let me tell you WOW nothing compares to that pain, so my point is I didnt even have contractions up front like 90% of women I am preggo with my 2nd and actually right now I am have BH contractions, but the main thing to keep in mind is that your baby will not move or kick or adjudst during real labor

ShyannaLott |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first baby, I never felt a contraction until I was 5 cm. The day before I went into labor, the doctor checked me and to our surprise I was already at 3 cm and I had felt nothing. The next day my water broke so I went to the hospital. They checked me immediately and I was at 5 cm. I started feeling some mild contractions after that, but nothing until about 1-2 hours later when they strengthened. This time around, I've been having contractions off and on for a month, with steady ones coming even every 4.5 minutes apart for 3 hours and that's been going on for over a week now. Today, I had some stronger ones and I think I am nesting pretty hard core now too, so maybe this time its real. Maybe...

snapgirl |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am exactly 38 weeks preggo today. I had my last doc appt on thurs and she examed me, I was dialated 3-4 and effaced 60% already. She said that typically "first timers" do not progress like this, this quickly and early on. It all makes me wonder if Ive been having contractions and not completely aware of it bc of high pain tolerance..??.. Either way my doc says,"I dont have a crystal ball or anything, but you arent gonna make it to your due date." So I am hoping I realize when it is TIME.

brookeleslie3910 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

i am 38 weeks yesterday and my doc check me and said i was dialated to a 2 and today i am having alot of sharp pains...more than ive ever had and i have been having braxton hicks alot! i dont no if this is true labor or just b.c. oh my gawsh this is really starting to be uncomfortable...hope she comes soon..

sexymama8291 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first baby I went into preterm labour at 31 weeks - with the help of drugs the doctors managed to stop it that time. A lot of the nurses in the hospital were telling me that oh, it was only false labour. Well, somehow the "false" labour dilated me to 3-4 cm, and I had to stay in the hospital on bedrest. Three weeks later I went into "false" labour again and somehow gave birth 60 hours later. My point is, sometimes you will be told that you are having false contractions when in fact they are real. In my last bout of labour the contractions were somewhat irregular and they also came one on top of the other which I understand is not conducive to a short labour and delivery...

Khedgehog |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

so with my first i went into labor 5 mos early and was on bedrest and medication till he was born at 36wks. i went in when my water broke and the nurse told me i just wet myself...needless to say, she was wrong and he was born 11 hrs later via emergency c section. number 2 was born 5 wks early. i was in "false labor" and when they cut the old c section scar off my water ruptured internally. all was ok. i was having a contraction and she kiske dand broke my water on the old scar. now number 3 i am paranoid that every kick or pain or leak i think i'm having this baby! ugh! i wish it was all over already!!! i have my checkup tomorrow and am expecting my doc to tell me she will be here soon!

yellowskittle |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am 34 wks today. I am dilated 3 cm. Been having BH since 18 wks. I have had two trips to the hospital due to preterm labor. One at 25 wks and one at 33 wks. I was having contractions 5-2 min apart for hours until they stopped them with medications. A lot of the contractions I could not even feel. For the longest time I didnt even know thats what was going on. I thought the tight feeling was just the baby moving and pushing on me. The doctor said she does not think I will make it to my due date. She hopes I get one more week in. I think I started nesting... I have been nauseated... swollen... and have loose BMs. I have been reading a lot and it says these could be signs that labor will be soon.

slnulf |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Everyone keeps saying you will know you are having "real" contractions if you can't walk, talk, or laugh through them. That wasn't the case for me, I went all the way to 10cm still telling jokes with the nurses...it was one of the ways I kept my mind off the pain. Not denying even a little that the pain is debilitating, but it is tolerable....our bodies are built for this. I think the best way to know whether you are really in labor or not is to pay attention to your body, don't over-analyze...if you are in labor, you will know, and if you are honestly scared....that is what your doctor/midwife is there for.

bkdesrosiers |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm 40 weeks and late last night I started getting pains like maybe gas in my stomach and I would move or get up, it goes aways. Today same thing, it's not close it just comes and goes . This is my 3rd pregancy, surely this isn't contractions, and I haven't lost my mucus plug yet.

tanyaborrego |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

My best friend just had her little girl a month ago and didn't have any typical labor signs. She woke up around one in the morning and felt sick to her stomach so went to the bathroom. She didn't throw up or anything, but she did say she felt like she had to poop. She never had pains or anything, but she just didn't feel right so she had her boyfriend drive her over to the hospital (rather be safe than sorry) and here she was FULLY dilated! Not only was she six weeks early, but she didn't have any pain or anything. She did end up having to get a c-section because Riley was breech, but I definitely wouldn't always assume signs will be obvious. If you simply feel like something isn't right I would definitely call the doctor at the very least.

kimberlymautz |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

When you get some BAD BH contractions it's hard to tell. Watch how much time is in between contractions. But when it's real labor there is no mistaking it!

Jesstastic |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I was one of the rare people whose water broke before anything else started. I woke up at 2 am, stood up and felt like I had peed my pants (maybe about a 1/2 a cup) and went to the bathroom immediately. I peed and there was a little brownish tinged discharge. I wasn't sure of it was just the mucus plug and if I had just experienced my first incontinence. Then after going to the bathroom the gush of fluids happened again. I was nervous about the discharge anyway, so we headed to the doctor and found out my bag of waters did break. Right after I got out of the bathroom, I did get what felt like mild period cramps. They came every five minutes or so. I still didn't have my baby for 12 hours...with pictocin.

kbgregoire |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first child I didn't even realize that I was in labor. I was at home and had a stomach ache, I thought it was from dinner because it only felt like I had eaten something that was off. I went to bed, slept for about 2 hours, woke up, went to use the bathroom because I felt like I had to go, couldn't, said that I felt like something was "blocking" and couldn't go to the toilet. Well, I got to the hospital 7 cm dilated, was in "labor", plus birth for 1.5 hours. They had to break my water because it just didn't want to. With my second I went into labor on Friday, went out of labor Saturday morning, then went back into labor Monday morning and had him Monday evening, but, again the pains didn't fell bad, honestly my cramps from my period are worse,and again they had to break my water because it didn't want to break. All the people relaying there stories just goes to show you that everyone is different, just listen to your body, and if you think you are in labor, then you probably are.

HotaruFett |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Just came from my 36 week appointment and was dilated 2 cm. This is our 6th baby, so I'm planning on an early delivery. Feeling lots of lower back pain and nesting!!! Hooray!

emmaagnes |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

These post never talk about prodromal labors. Not to be confused with false labor. Prodromal labors are more common with first time moms and I feel like moms should be prepared in the event they are the unlucky ones to have one. It's much more common to hear about these among ftm's that attempt natural births. If you are induced or put on pit early on you would probably never even know you were going to have one. I attempted a natural birth as a ftm and my ds was sunny side up. My contractions which were incredibly painful back labor started at 6am Wednesday morning and I labored at home until Friday morning. I visited the birth center 3 times and the hospital once. I went home each time because I never progressed past 3 1/2cm and I still wanted to attempt a natural birth. I didn't sleep for 2 days and the pain was so intense that I spent most of those 2 days at home in the shower or tub just trying to cope with it. It was declared a prodromal labor on te 3rd day after 58 hours of going natural and not progressing past 4cm. At that point my fear was not having energy to push and I gave up and headed to the hospital for pit and epi. The epi allowed me to sleep while the pit helped me slowly dilate. 12 hours after I got the pit/epi my water broke naturally and I started pushing 72 hours into labor. 3 hours of pushing ds was finally born! 75 freaking hours of labor- That is a prodromal labor and ftm's should know that it can happen. I thought I had done all my homework and I had never even heard that having such a long labor or the term prodromal. So all these rules of what to look for did not apply to my first labor and it's important for ftm's to learn about this, especially if they plan to go natural! I wish you all happy, healthy and fast labors!

lindseyMc |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I tend to not feel early labor, for some reason. With my first, I went in to have my water broken (as planned at 38 weeks, due to toxemia) and they asked how long I'd been having contractions 9 minutes apart--I had no idea! With our second, the first "real" contraction I felt was at 9 am and I was holding our daughter at 9:32! Every mom and every labor is so different, you really can't compare story to story because you never know what each new baby will surprise you with! This is our third and last daughter and I am having some anxiety about getting to the hospital this time after the small amount of notice our second one gave me!! Everyone's different. If you THINK you're in labor--call or go to the hospital--better to find out there then second guess youself and deliver in the car on the way after waiting too long!

April26BrideToBe |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

My labor did not follow any of the rules. I lost my mucus plug and dropped a week and a half before I went into labor. My water didn't break on it's own (the doctor did it at 5cm). And my contractions were never regular. They would be 15, 10, 8, 5, 2, and then back to 15 minutes apart. They did that general pattern for 3 hours before I went to the hospital and kept it up through labor and even while I was pushing they would be 4 minutes apart, then I would have a few right on top of each other, then nothing for 4-5 minutes. 23 hours after my first weird series of contractions my son was born. If I had waited for the 5-1-1 rule he would have been born in the car.

CourtneyR2N |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Most women go to the hospital way too early and end up having interventions they don't need. Going by emotional sign posts works for women with both regular and irregular contractions. If you start to have contractions and you are smiling and having pictures taken of you are not ready to go. If however, you have to concentrate during a contraction and refuse to have any pictures taken of you because you have to focus on relaxation, then it is probably time to go to the birth center or call your midwife. A mucus plug can come out and then reform in some cases, so it is not necessarily a sign for all women.

paraquita |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I went into pre-term labor and 28 weeks. I was having back labor and didn't even realize that I was having contractions. The doctors were able to stop it with a shot but some people don't feel any contractions in the uterus. Sometimes it just feels like back pain.

NewBabyBoy11 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am working on baby number five, I would say the easiest way to describe the "real thing" for me where pains that were regular, or getting more frequent, and of increased intensity. The real ones usually make you sweat and increase your pulse, and make your breathing more rapid. Then there was a sense of urgency that went along with it all.

Heathermanera |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

i dunno... every labour and birth has been different for me.. with my last child..i had had labour pains during the night then it had stopped...in the morning i got up and moved around i ended up on the couch not being able to get up having around 5 contractions..i then felt the urge to push and my water broke..few seconds later his head then body was out..i was at home alone as my partner had gone to drop off our toddler at his sisters..this is my fifth child and it can totally catch you unaware..so you dont always have the steady buildup..everybody is different..this is the exception mind you not the rule...i have always had quick labours but never expected to deliver at home on my own...looking back its very special to me and a great story to tell at his 21st

shaznev |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am currently 35 weeks pregnant and have been back and forth to the hospital having contractions. They haven't been BH, the real deal, but no dilation. My doctor says that some women have contractions and they just dot feel them. She said since I am tiny though, I literally feel everything. They would give me shots to stop my contractions, but now they have stopped and said he can come whenever! But ladies, every person is different. So while it helps reading everyones opinion, don't take it as, that must be what it is. Ask your doctor if you have any questions because every doctor tells their patient something different. And Good Luck!

jennmoore2958 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

real labour you will begin to have regular contractions, whereas false labout you can have irregular contractions

lizziec16 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I went into labor at 15 weeks (they call it a complete spontaneous abortion this early). I had been to the doctor earlier that day and both baby and I were perfect. Our first trimester screening was all normal. About two hours in, my water broke and the ER still hadn't even started my fluids or pain meds or anything. My contractions started at 2am and about 30 minutes into increasing pain and intensity, I knew what was happening with every bone in my body. All these responses should give you some ideas to consider, but every person and experience is different. You'll know.

jenlb4614 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm 34 weeks today. With my first child I was dilated to 3 and hadn't felt anything. My doctor decided to induce so I didn't feel contractions until then and they were really intense. So this time I don't know what to look for. This past weekend I started having lower abdomen pain. It lasts for a little while then goes away. But no other symptoms. Not sure if I will make it to my due date but will hopefully make it a few more weeks. Really hope my Dr doesn't decide to induce again though. Would love to experience labor naturally this time.

hollberry1 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm currently 38 weeks and miserable. Was 100% effaced and 3 cm dilated at 33 weeks and admitted to the hospital for preterm labor and then once they stopped it I was on bed rest until 37 weeks. At my last appointment doc said I probably wouldn't make it to my due date by this little one seems to be holding on tight so far. As of tonight no contractions still just lots of constant lower back pain and somewhat painful pelvic and bladder pain that feels like her head pushing down. Really hoping this means she'll be out soon cause I don't think I can take much more of it.

letterkay |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

My due date is in 2 days. I had a stretch and sweep 3 days ago which resulted in some normal spotting along with the regular discharge. I awoke in the middle of the night due to an intense upper abdominal cramp that lasted about 30 seconds. Not sure if this was a contraction or not, but afterwards i had a few lower cramps that were very bearable; however, when experiencing them, i excreet a mucuous discharge. It does not look like my mucous plug though, and i honestly could not tell you if that was lost over the past few days while spotting. Any thoughts........im really impatient these days, anxious to meet my little one and i could be over analysizing this :)

imabus |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I was in the hospital several days ago and they said I was 2cm dilated, but three hours later, my labor and contractions just stalled. Even if they are the real thing, be prepared to go home empty handed and disappointed once or twice. But also keep in mind, especially if this is your first and a lot of people are excited about your little one, that pressure from family and friends once you go into the hospital can effect your labor. Even if it is unintentional. They think that is why my labor stalled. Unconsciously, I was under too much pressure from everyone around me.

Lunabelle04 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

At 23 weeks pregnant I was 20% effaced. Apparently I was having irregular contractions and never knew! I was closely monitored and nothing progressed with my cervix so all was well. At 33 weeks, I didn't feel pain, but I knew something wasn't right. My stomach felt tight and I had some slight back pain. I called the doctor and they had me come in to be checked. I ended up having to go to another hospital because I was in preterm labor. At that point I was contracting every 2 minutes, not feeling a thing, and had effaced to 35% no dilation though. They were able to stop the contractions with a shot and I was sent home on oral medication to keep contractions under control. I NEVER felt a thing! This time around I'm 26 weeks and having some pretty bad back pain and again don't "feel right" I'm hoping history is not repeating itself.

alymedero |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am almost 39 weeks and I began having contractions the last week and they lasted about 3 or 4 days, pretty consistent. I went to the hospital and they told me I was already over 4cm dilated and 80% effaced, but my contractions weren't strong enough so I was technically in "active labor". They sent me home and now I haven't had any contractions for the last 2 days. I am being induced in a couple of days and by the time I get there I'm sure I will already be 5cm dilated. This is my first baby and I know they say the first one usually takes the longest.... but 4.5cm dilated and hardly any contractions?? hmmmm.....

lanap417 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

No 2 pregnancies are the same, so everyone is going to feel labor differently. When I was pregnant with my first, 2 days prior to delivery I started having alot of back pain. I didn't think anything of it and continued my normal routines. Well I went to a regularly scheduled Dr. appt. and they then told me that I was having contractions, and that I was 4 cm dialated! It wasn't until that night after they broke my water for me, that I felt the real contractions. So it's hard to say what labor feels like and how you will know because no 2 people are going to have the same feelings or the same experience. If you feel that the pain you are having is severe enough, and it doesn't feel typical, like something experienced throughout your pregnancy, go to your Dr. or the local ER the worst thing that can happen is they tell you false alarm and send you home.

MandaNic2005 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am 33 weeks and lately I feel a tugging n sharp painaround my belly button at first I tought it was him moving around but im getting worried if hes mayby getting caught in the cord...n I dont go to the doctor til next week..worried

Shailuvly |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Wow if loosing your mucus plug means you are in labor I was in labor for the last 13 weeks with me son... And have been with this one for a few weeks already. I was told it was a combination of that and the contractions because if you don't have both nothing is happening.

Tutock |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

My first was wrapped in his cord, so we never had time-able or regular contractions all the way up through delivery. Each pregnancy is different and labor is different- call your doctor if you are not sure. The worst thing that can happen is they send you home. To Shailuvly- you can't feel if they are tangled in the cord- they can't even see it on an ultrasound- monitor if your baby is moving- drink a caffeinated beverage to make sure he is moving- if you are still concerned, call your doctor.

jmdaly |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am 39 weeks 2 days and I have trouble telling if I am having contractions or if I'm just feeling intense pain from my son's movement (he's nearly 9 1/2 lbs). I feel increased back pain and severe cramping but rarely feel tightening of the abdomen or pain that radiates from the back to the front. At my appointment yesterday I wasn't even dilated. I'm pretty sure I'm going over my due date. They plan to induce at 40wks due to his size. I am a person who definitely needs a clear SIGN that I'm in labor. It's just so hard to tell, and yes this is my first. I have a high pain tolerance and cannot tell if what I am feeling is bad cramping and normal aches from him being low in my abdomen, or labor pains. :/

samwanye08 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first I was to the ER 2-3 times with real contractions that just weren't dilating me & I was sent home. These contractions were 2-5 minutes apart but I wasn't dehydrated...either way the Drs made me feel stupid so I vowed I wasn't going back until my water broke b/c I didn't want to be told it was false labor again. Thank goodness my water broke, but it was at 36 1/2 weeks & until it broke the contractions I was having were the same intensity as the other 2-3 times I went to the ER. The whole day before it broke though I felt like total crap... Now I'm on #2, 34wks measuring 36wks & just made my first trip to the ER where again I was made to feel dumb. So I know I'm having irregular contractions but now I'm trying to determine if it's b/c I'm dehydrated or if she's coming soon. I'm definitely nesting...trying to hold on a little longer...but hoping my water breaks again this time so I know for sure!

mmarshall212 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

im in my 40 week pregnant its my 2nd one im starting to feel sharp pains im so itchy sleepy tierd but cant sleep i feel like doing something but i dont know what i cant walk fast hopefully its labor time thinking of my baby i get exited but i dont want to go early to the hospital lets see if i can stand the pain or go to sleep tonight.

daisy romero |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I have a question... I am currently in my 36th week and throughout my pregnancyI have experienced back pain. My mom seems to believe that I might have back labor. How can I be sure that I am in labor and that it is not just back pain? p.s as of now the back pain is not severe.

gagardaya |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

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jerryms |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

My first came 14 years ago without any complications. I was due 5/16 and 5/3 at 1AM I got up to go to the bathroom. I realized I was no longer peeing. 3 days prior to this I was already 3 or 4 centimeters dilated and had had no braxton hicks contractions. Went to the hospital around 2AM, settled in, contractions started and 1:07PM that afternoon she was born. I had terrible back labor, so I'm still unsure as to what 'real' contractions feel like. I'm now due May 1st and a little apprehensive as to if I will 'know' when the time comes. Good Luck ladies and God Bless.

10thanniversary2011 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

This is my first. I get kinda confused on whether or not I'm goin into labor. I'm due today but I dnt think he's gonna cum just yet, i also think im startin to lose my mucus plug too. my contraction were 8 min apart now there jus 10 min apart

dionsmommy23 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am 38 weeks today and have been having small cOntractions and lower back pain. I have also been nesting like crazy these last few days! Last Tuesday my OBGYN told me I had started to dilate. I was at a 1 and 70% effaced. I didn't know I was dilating at all. Friday night after intercourse with my husband, I was in some serious pain. I stayed home for 2 hours and tried to deal with it but it wouldn't go away, so we go to the ER. I was dilated to a 2 and still 70% effaced, but my contractions were happening anywhere from five minutes apart to one minute apart. They kept me at the hospital for four hours and I had regular contractions, but no more dilation. I was sent home. Same thing happened Sunday, only I wasn't kept for more than two hours. I felt so stupid after the second time. They basically told me to stop having sex and that they can't induce (which I didn't ask them to) until 39 weeks. I am hoping my little boy will come soon, and I really hope my water breaks because i don't want to be sent home again. I am super swollen, nesting, and have already lost my mucus plug... And now I am just losing patience.

bethybabycakes |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm 36 weeks and 4 days and have been having regular contractions or what I think are my contractions for the past week. They have been anywhere from 3 mins apart for 3 hours to 15 mins apart for whole days. Some are painful and some are just annoying. I'm hoping that when she does decide to come that the pain will be a lot more noticeable so I can make it to the hospital in time. Good Luck to all of you ladies!

Jaronsfiance |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm 39 weeks with my first and I occasionally have pains that feel a lot like when the baby wiggles her head down in my pelvis but these last anywhere from 30 to 60 seconds instead of the quick twinge I feel when it is her moving. I assume these are Braxton Hicks because they are far and few in between. When they happen I usually have a full bladder and my stomach must be tight, though I don't feel a tightening, because you can clearly see a lump where my bladder is full. I go potty and the lump goes away. The episodes are uncomfortable and slightly painful. I would call them intense. Really hard to get up out of the chair when they happen. I don't know if these are prelabor signs, but I hope so because I can't wait to go through it! :-)

Izzboof |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Im going on 39 weeks. I had my check up yesterday and am 5cm dialated and 80%effaced. However, the dr. sent me home because the contractions are not "regular" (5 min apart). I keep having what feels like menstral cramps for the past 12 hours. I am just hoping things will speed along. This is my second child. My first was born at 37 weeks after my water broke. I was counting on this one coming around the same time, but i guess you never can tell :)

kfig86 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm 37.5 weeks today with my first and when the doctor checked me today I was 3cm and 80% effaced. I've had maybe 2 BH contractions in the last month but other than that I haven't felt anything. unfortunately baby has been transverse pretty much the entire pregnancy, Dr is going to try to turn the baby next Thursday, so i'm really hoping he doesn't decided to make his appearance before than, definitely not wanting a c-section :(

bluejeanbaby1217 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

back pain

katiehelderman |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I honestly could'nt answer that because my labor was induced due to High Blood Pressure! They gave me Pitocin and to get my labor actively started and they had to break my water bag using some utensil? All i remember is having EXTERME contractions in my lower back!! I could'nt even tell you what a contraction in my stomach feels like. I delivered at 35 weeks. Now that i am on baby #2 I am hoping to experience a Normal/Traditional labor...

Queen 2 Be |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I just wanted to add, losing your mucus plug is NOT a sign of labor! I'm an OB nurse, and you can loose it weeks before you start labor. We have so many women come in thinking that it means they're going into labor, because all the books/sites says it is. It's not even something we assess because it means nothing about labor starting.

lindsaypattman |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I went to the hospital after having consisten contractions that were anywhere from 8-15 minutes apart. I lost my mucus plug the week before, and had been having contractions for 24 hours. I went to the hospital and was still only 1 cm dialated, so they had me walk around for an hour to see if it would move things along....unfortunately, it didn't so they sent me home. Half an hour later, my water broke!!! Even still, my contractions never got closer together, only stronger and stronger, so that may not always be an indicator. They had to give me potosin because I wasn't dialating on my own and my contractions wouldn't get closer together. 16 hours later, my little boy arrived! : ) Now I'm pregnant with my second...I'm at 22 weeks and already experiencing BH contractions!!

Punkin62599 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

mucus plug comes out. contractions lasting a minute or longer sometimes back labour

emianddjsgavin |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'll be 37 weeks tomorrow. This is my 1st baby & I have no clue what to expect when it comes to labor. I have alot of pressure down there & the doctor said yesterday that it was normal. Everyone thinks I'm gonna go early because my real mother did.

ChantelleMariexo12 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I was in preterm labor (6 weeks early) for three days and had no idea what was going on! I thought I was severely constipated. LOL so idk what people who say you can't walk or talk with "real" contractions are even talking about! I was walking around, making food, doing chores, etc. The last day, before I decided to go to the hospital, is the first day that it was getting difficult to walk around. So it's very different for everyone which makes it hard, especially when it's your first, to identify real labor. Had I known I was in labor, I would have gone to the hospital WAY sooner! However, our little baby boy came the morning after I went to the hospital, and is now a healthy 2 month old! <3

Jsparks84@yahoo.com |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am 38 weeks along with my first baby. Three days ago my doctor checked me and I had already lost my mucus plug... she said that I was "70% effaced and 3 and some wiggle room dilated." I was surprised that I was this far progressed with out much indication from my own body? I have been having irregular contractions that are fairly painless. Lots of random sharp pains in the pelvis area. I feel like I might be in labor but I am so unsure? I am also still getting fetal movement... is this normal??

leuretta63 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I few tired a lot

deise |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

today I am 40 weeks my only issue ismy Dr has not checkd to see if i have dialated or anything so I feel so unsure of whats going on and if we are almost ready. Has anyone elses Dr said they dont believe in checking because you can go into labor or stay dialated for any amount of time?

angdilli |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Well I'm 28 weeks along and the past 2 days I've had horrible pain along my upper abdominal area by my ribs its actually happening right now, is that a bh contraction? Or should i be worried

ttcmommietobe |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

u cant time braxton hicks and if u move they tend to go away the real thing doesnt do that

mommy4x12 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

i got up havin lots of energy today i cant even sleep... is that a sign that my baby is almost here?

jenniferc4141 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Im only 33wks im 1cm dilated and 80% effaced ! Also losing little pieces of my mucus plug. Crazyyyy !

Amarismommy7 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I am 40 weeks today ugh this has been a very stressful pregnancy. It is Friday night almost Sat morning and last Tuesday the Midwife scraped/swiped my membranes and right after I was having some uncomfortable achy feeling in my belly and back, but nothing really constant. I was only right at 2 cm dilated which I had been for two weeks. Last night around 2am I lost part of my mucus plug (by the way it was not pinkish more clear and snot like sorry i know it is gross). Most of my labor pains have started in my lower middle of back and would feel kinda like a burning and then move towards the front and my belly would tighten and it felt like she was pushing out on my belly or something. It would be rock hard and stay like that for about a min and then go away. I have only had these pains maybe 3-4 times total today. This is my second pregnancy and I thought that it would go a little faster than my previous one with my son. with my first my water started to leak at 2-3 am and I never felt any contractions so I did not go to the hospital until I finally told a friend the following evening around 6pm and she told me my water had broke. They gave me meds to start my labor and I did not feel any contractions even then until about an hr or so later when they got really bad. My first pregnancy is so different than this one in every way so it is hard to judge even based on what you already know. I know it is nerve racking, but just remember to breathe it will all hopefully be over for us soon.

13savannah13 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I'm tired of hearing about Braxton hicks contractions not being true labor. They may not be consistent and may stop and start but if they are dilating your cervix and you are starting to efface from them then doesn't that mean you are in labor? and if it's to soon to for that then its preterm labor. So I say be careful and call your doctor if you are having contractions, whether they are Braxton hicks or not. I went on my bed rest with my first child and second child for so called false labor.

ash138 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Sometimes u wont feel any of these things. I went into labor this weekend, early labor. They had to stop my contractions bc i am only 31 weeks. I wqs having contractions 4 mins apart by the time i got to the hosp, this is my second child. I didnt even feel the contractions! Some people dont. Luckily my water had not broken. But with my daughter, my water broke but i was not having contractions, they had to induce me. eveyone is different. If u dont feel right and it is near ur due date, call your dr. It is better to be safe in a hosp bed and have to go home for a false alarm, then to be delivering ur baby in the car on the way to the hosp lol

Desmarie13 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Some babies WILL be active during real labor... Mine are very active during real labor and this is my 3rd. Thats why its important to know everyone and pregnancy is different.

Daniella4 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I went into Preterm labor on Saturday. At first, I brushed the contractions off as Braxton hicks being at work and trying to keep my mind on what I was doing. It wasn't until a half an hour later that I realized that the contractions were happening every 5-7 minutes. I let it go on and continued working for another 2-3 hours until they started getting more and more intense. I ended up leaving work and going to the hospital where they monitored me for the next 5 and a half hours. They said that I was in preterm labor and gave me three doses of medication (shot form) to get the contractions to stop seeing as thought I wasn't dialating. Always call your doctor first, they'll tell you what to do. Mine told me to go straight to the hospital and I'm glad that I did!

dementedxangel |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

The comment about your baby not moving at all during real labor is completely FALSE.... I was induced, and my son had never put himself into the head down position anyway, but began to somersault and spin himself while I was in the first stage of labor. The doctor even stopped the induction until he settled down.

cuteblonde6868 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first baby my water broke and I was barely 2cm dilated...I went to the hospital and after they verified that my water had broken they had me walk around and bounce on an exercise ball...but still, no contractions. In the end, my body never began contractions until I was hooked up to Pitocin. Pitocin induced contractions are rough...I was miserable and it took hours before I was dilated 4 cm and could get the epideral. This time with my second, I was sure that my water had broken so I grabbed my maternity bag and headed to the hospital. I wasn't expecting contractions, since I never had any with the previous pregnancy when my water had broken...but once I go to the hospital the fern test showed that my water had not broken...i was shocked!! I'm a little over 38 weeks now...still waiting but no contractions...Ive got a few weeks yet but I sure hope I get healthy baby before the end of the year! We'll see! Of course, babies come when they're ready!!

cutiesnowgirl |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I slightly disagree. I am pregnant with child number four, with my first two. He no contractions but my water broke so I went to the hospital. For number three I had contractions and did not go because they were not consistent. They started at five minutes apart and got further apart as the day passed. Finally when they were 10 minutes apart but unbearable I called my dr who said it was probably false labor but to come in. Once I got there they checked me and the babies head was already there! I barely made it to the hospital on time. If you're having horrible pain no matter how far apart, I say GO!

Leianneliz82 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my 1st child the only way I knew that my child was coming soon is because of the expulsion of the mucus plug and the tightening of my stomach. I never felt an actual labor pain so when I arrived to the hospital the doctor checked me and I had dialated to 7cm and they were shocked. My second child I had to be induced because of preclampsia and gestational diabetes and my baby was very large. Once again when I get to the hospital I had dialated to 7cm almost 8cm and when they induced me my son what here 50 min later. My 3rd time around I had to have a c-section because I was having twins and one was stillborn. Now I am on my 4th and last and due to my last delivery being a c-section they won't let me deliver natural. So I guess I am done.

BabyCharlee |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I nevermade it to the hospital with my fourth. I had had contractions 4-5minutes apart from 30 weeks on. At 36 1/2 weeks I went to the doctor and was having the normal contractions and was dialated to 4cm. They sent me home though. That night, I started feeling like the baby had dropped. i spoke to the doctor and she was unsure to go to the hospital. i began getting things ready and we got into the car to head 45 minutes to the hospital Ten minutes into the ride my water broke and she was out in 9 minutes. My husband pullled over and caught her and the paramedics came 10 min. later. We were still 20 miles from our hospital we had planned to go to. now that I am pregnant with my fifth I am a bit concerned my husband won't even make it to our son's birth. I'm crossing my fingers and my doctor knowsmy deliveriesare very quick.

jamieball1977 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first: At my 37 week appt the doc said I was dilated one or 2, and later I noticed my mucus plug had come out. , A few days, I just felt extra tired and weird all day (I had my baby shower that day also)....I was a youth minister and at the youth Super Bowl party I actually laid on the couch to do a kick count, and I realized I was having regular "tightening" feelings. So I went home (there was other staff and volunteers there so I could leave). I went home and continued to have the same feelings. They started to intensify and get painful. After two or three calls into the nurse, they said to come in and get checked. I had dilated to 4cm, and had her about 18 hours after arriving. The important thing to remember is everyone is different. My one friend had "false" labor a couple of times, and it wasn't until her water broke that she went into "true" labor and then it was really intense. Another friend's wife, had such a high pain tolerance that all she felt was a regular tightening in her abdomen and wasn't going to go in right away but just decided to be safe than sorry. They had their first within an hour of arriving at the hospital.

cchik004 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Even though I should have been an "expert" I went to the hospital with false labor with my sixth child. It just goes to show that even with lots of previous experience, every labor is different. We'll see how baby number 7 goes in about 6 weeks. Good luck to you all!

emmaagnes |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Just came from my 36 week appointment and was dilated 2 cm. This is our 6th baby, so I'm planning on an early delivery. Feeling lots of lower back pain and nesting!!! Hooray! perruques

Mark2018 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

With my first pregnancy, at 36.5 weeks I began to leak that increased over 24 hrs but that was all I had. I went to the hospital, and after running the appropriate tests they said that I was indeed having a slow leak and that it was time. I had no contractions and eventually had to be induced. I was then 8cm dilated before they checked me and finally gave me my muh needed epidural. My daughter came out fine, at 6.5lbs. Now that I am on my second and currently 33 weeks, I just keep assuming this one will also be early as well so it will be a shocker for me if I go to 40 weeks.

eagle3 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Go with your gut. My first two were easy, my water broke. However my third I had very irregular contractions- they kept getting further apart and my water never broke. By the time I got to the hospital they said the only reason I didn't have my baby in my arms was because I hadn't pushed. Five hours before he was born I was at my doctor because I thought I was getting sick and he sent me home and told me to rest so I wouldn't be sick when labor started.

Leianneliz82 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

i feel so confused. with my first, i didnt have pain in my pelvic area, my contraction pains were in my back. and i went to the er n they said i was indeed in labor. so maybe not all contractions come from the pelvic area

19nmommyof2 |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

Having Contractions Means I’m In Labor, Right? Not Necessarily http://decodedpregnancy.com/do-contractions-mean-labor/1683/ This article written by me, A labor and delivery nurse of 7 years, should help.

evrythingisababy |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

3

mauwarter |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

contractions are closer together and don't stop

jcoletteprosper |

Q&A: What are signs of labor?

I must say that this is the strangest of all my pregnancies...this is number 4 for us and not one of them has been the same. My 2 older ones are typical cases, follow the book, my 3 was induced at 37 wks for medical reasons and I must admit that due to that I think my contractions were more extreme, my water also had to be broken but now onto number 4 and nothing is typical. I've hit 38 wks but I've had signs that labor is on its way for close to a week-bloody discharge, mucus plug has come out and contractions here & there (can't keep a consistent count though) but my water won't break, cervix didn't drop and I'm not dilated. I have contractions 2 in an hour then they pass, I have the feelings that I'm about to pee my pants but nothing happens...like I jokingly said on facebook, I think our little girl is sitting in there with a calendar waiting for this weekend, lol! I go for another U/S and a doc appt tomorrow to see what's up, hopefully we'll get our answers. Its a nervous feeling and an anxious feeling all at the same time! Anyone with insite on this please feel free to respond...

danfionar |

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