Q&A
How Do I Know If I'm In Labour?
Question:
I'm in my 36th week of pregnancy and I'm worried that I won't recognize labour until it's too late to get to the hospital in time. How do I tell the real thing from Braxton-Hicks contractions?
Many women worry they won't recognize labour – but you will! True labour contractions are different in quality and quantity from the Braxton-Hicks contractions that you've been having: They usually begin in the back and move around to the front, you feel pressure in the pelvic area and the contractions don't stop even when you change your activity level, for example, by lying down or by getting up and walking around.
But the most important difference is the fact that true labour contractions typically start with mild, period-like cramps that gradually increase in strength and frequency over time. Some moms-to-be feel it low in their abdomen, others in the back.
If you're experiencing contractions, do time your contractions from the beginning of one contraction until the beginning of the next. Also take note how long each contraction lasts. True labour contractions will become more intense, get closer together and last longer as labour progresses.
The latent (very early) phase of labour can last a few days with 'niggly' aches and pains that start and stop; while the active labour is consistent and intense. As a guide, active dilation occurs when contractions are intense and the interval is two to three minutes apart. Many doctors advise expecting mums to leave for the hospital when the contractions are five minutes apart and you have trouble walking or talking through them.
Also other labour signs to watch for include a bloody show and waters breaking:
A show
You'll see a bloody gel-like substance in your underwear -- this is the mucus plug that sealed your cervix in pregnancy.
Waters breaking
This happens when the membrane sac surrounding your baby bursts. This may be in a gush or in a trickle where you constantly feel wet and need to wear a pad.
The general rule is: If you're not sure you're in labor, then you are probably not! It might be the start of it, but when you have regular contractions that take your breath away, you'll know.
Best of luck!
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