Finally in labor?

cpenro01 · July 2015

It's so frustrating to not know for sure what the start of labor feels like! I am 40+1 and, at my appointment last Wednesday, I was dilated 1cm (where I've been for about four weeks), 80% effaced, and baby was at -1 station. I've had the occasional Braxton-Hicks, but otherwise have had no aches or pains.. or any other sign that this baby is planning on vacating the premises. As of about a half hour ago, though, I have had intense, constant cramping (like period cramps) and pelvic pressure. My stomach is as hard as a rock. Everything I've ever heard about "true labor" is that it comes in measured waves and has accompanying back pain - and neither of those apply. Is this just some really uncomfortable false labor? If yes, what helps?

My mom's no help because she only had extreme back labor for all three of us and claims she wouldn't know a contraction if it hit her.

Thanks in advance!

Maracs · July 2015

If your belly has been right and hard for a half hour you should give a call to your provider.

clairelange · July 2015

This sounds like my braxton hicks. I get long intense BH. Makes my entire stomach go hard. Eventually they go away....

What did your dr say?

cpenro01 · July 2015

I got in a warm tub and they did settle down and eventually go away, unfortunately. I think they were just intense Braxton-Hicks, since they were never regular or really painful, just uncomfortable. Still no baby at 40+3!

jessicayounghouse · July 2015

Had that the other night. With this being the my third, I can tell you it's normal. Your cervix is finishing the thinning process! The pain and discomfort isn't for no reason... your body is getting ready. Moving around is the best relief I've found. Good luck!

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