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SIGNS OF PRE-LABOR
You may experience certain changes that indicate the onset of labor is near. These may be:
- Increased frequency of Braxton-Hicks Contractions.
- Lightening - Relaxation of uterine ligaments allowing baby to settle deeper into pelvis. This usually occurs two weeks prior to labor with first pregnancy. It occurs just prior to or during labor in subsequent birth.
- Increased vaginal secretions.
- Discharge of mucous plug.
- 1-2 pound weight loss.
- Diarrhea or loose bowels (nature's way of cleaning the bowel before labor).
- Nesting syndrome - You begin preparing for the arrival of your new baby. i.e.. Sudden urge to hurry up and clean the house.
SIGNS OF LABOR
- Bloody show may be seen at beginning of labor (a pinkish vaginal secretion of blood and mucus).
- Ruptured membranes - a sudden gush or slow leaking of fluid from vagina.
- Contractions (described below)
*Do not use tampons with ruptured membranes. Use sanitary napkins or incontinence pads, if needed. Do not use a tub bath without consulting with your midwife first.
TRUE LABOR CONTRACTIONS
- Become regular as labor progresses.
- Get stronger over time.
- Walking makes them stronger.
- Resting does not make them go away.
- Felt in back and radiate to the front.
- Cervix effaces and dilates.
- Last longer as labor progresses (duration).
- Shorter rest periods between (frequency).
- Come every 20-30 minutes or start closer together.
FALSE LABOR CONTRACTIONS
- Are usually irregular and short.
- Do not get close together.
- Walking does not affect the contraction.
- Resting may help stop them.
- Usually felt in the front and groin area.
- Cervix does not change significantly.
Note: It is always a good idea to call your midwife or health care provider when in doubt.
I will often tell a mom with contractions that she is not sure about to go take a warm shower or bath and then go to bed for a while. If they are not real contractions, they will often stop after she goes to bed. The bath helps to relax tensions before resting.
Many women experience "Braxton Hick's" contractions during late pregnancy. I often suggest that when these things do occur, they are what I call "getting ready contractions" and can be used to practice breathing and relaxation techniques before true labor begins. I also feel that they, although not real labor contractions, still do some good in helping the uterus "exercise" before labor starts and sometimes they actually help dilate and efface the cervix some before actual labor begins. I was always 4 cm dilated and 50% effaced whenever my labors actually started.
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MoonDragon's Pregnancy Information & Survival Tips
