Can someone tell me what is the signs of labor?
Answers:
It's often not possible to pinpoint exactly when "true" labor begins because early labor contractions might start out feeling like the Braxton Hicks contractions you may have been noticing for weeks. It's likely that labor is under way, however, when your contractions become increasingly longer, stronger, and closer together. They may be as far apart as every ten minutes or so in the beginning, but they won't stop or ease up no matter what you do. And in time, they'll become more painful and closer together. In some cases, though, the onset of strong, regular contractions comes with little or no warning — it's different for every woman and with every pregnancy.
Consistent Contractions: When you begin to experience regular uterine contractions, this is the strongest indication that you are in labor. This is the time to get your notebook to record the exact time each one begins, and how long it lasts. These contractions feel like menstrual cramps or a low backache that comes and goes at 20 to 30 minute intervals. Gradually, the aching or cramping becomes stronger and lasts longer. When your contractions are consistantly 5 minutes apart, it's time to call the midwife or your doctor.
Labor Contractions Have the Following Characteristics:
They are regular
They follow a predictable pattern (such as every eight minutes)
They become progressively closer
They last progressively longer
They become progressively stronger
Each contraction is felt starting in the lower back and then radiating around to the front or visa versa
A change in activity or position will not slow down or stop contractions
There may be bloody show
Membranes may rupture
Your doctor or midwife will notice cervical changes, such as effacement (thinning), or dilation
CONGRATULATIONS on your upcoming arrival!
Other Answers:
You may be having contractions. My doctor told me whenever I get these pains to change what I am doing. If the pain doesn't stop or worsens to go to the hospital. Also if you are having more then five contractions within an hour you need to go to the hospital. Sounds like you are close!
GOOD LUCK!!!!!!!!
Source(s):
Mommy of a three year old little boy and 33 weeks pregnant with my second.
I could tell I was having contractions because my low back felt like it was tightening up and my stomach would get really hard. It was hard for me to walk. If you are having sharp pains in your back and stomach please go and get checked out, it is better to be safe then sorry.
Good luck with everything and they grow fast.
Experts don't fully understand what triggers the onset of labor, and there's no way to predict exactly when it will start. Your body actually starts "preparing" for labor up to a month before you give birth. You may be blissfully unaware of what's going on or you may begin to notice new symptoms as your due date draws near. Here are some things that may happen in the weeks or days before labor starts:
If this is your first pregnancy, you may feel what's known as "lightening" a few weeks before labor starts. You might detect a heaviness in your pelvis as this happens and notice less pressure just below your ribcage, making it easier to catch your breath.
More frequent and intense contractions can signal pre-labor, during which your cervix ripens and the stage is set for true labor. Some women experience a crampy, menstrual-like feeling during this time.
You may pass your mucus plug — the small amount of thickened mucus that's sealed your cervical canal during the last nine months — if your cervix begins to dilate as you get close to labor. The plug may come out all at once in a lump, or as increased vaginal discharge over the course of several days. The mucus may be tinged with blood (which may be brown, pink, or red), which is why it's referred to as "bloody show."
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