Pre-term labor question(s)

AlexPuppy

So, my insurance rocks and they paid for a nurse to come to my house and talk to me about PTL... show me the signs to look for, how to monitor myself, etc.  The two days since then, I have pretty much just been freaking out wondering if I was having contractions but didn't realize it.  My belly gets harder in the evenings, but I figured that was because I've been eating all day and things are just getting more squished in there.  I know contractions will come and go rather than just being a constant hard feeling, but is that the only difference?

For those of you who have/had contractions early on, is it super obvious?  The way the nurse explained it, it seems like they can be relatively subtle at the beginning and you have to be paying close attention.  She wants me to monitor myself twice a day for an hour each time.  I suppose that's doable, but really?  Two hours of just sitting there touching my belly??

akaMrsL

I also have hardening on the right side of my stomach ususally at night too.  Never is it painful or crampy.  I know one baby is in that spot so I just assumed it was her but maybe I should call my OB too.

abbzy85

I had contractions since about 23 weeks. I realized they were contractions because my whole belly gets rock hard. I did have more than 4/5 an hour but since my cervix was long and strong the Dr. didn't worry. If your contrax are painful or if anything else changes, always call the Dr.

blairsgirl

I was hospitalized at 30 weeks for ptl.  I didn't even know I was having contractions.  Didn't even feel them.  I was at an appt and my cervix was check and I was dilated.  They sent me to l&d to get checked out.  Just pay close attention to your body, stay as hydrated as possible, and if you are ever in doubt about anything call the dr.  That's what they are there for.