How do I know?

Question

How do you know when your having true contractions and are in labor? Ftm here and I have been feeling cramps and a little pain but I don't want to go to the hospital a million times to be sent home. Lost mucus plug, water has NOT broke and at the appt I was 50% effaced and 2 cm dilated

Answer

A nurse explained this to me! I'm also a first timer. The top of your tummy will feel tight with some pressure (almost like the baby is balling up or pushing against your ribs). The rest of your tummy will then get really tight and as the contraction begins to end sharp cramping pain hit at the bottom or just below the tummy.

Not all contracts are super painful at first. More just tight and uncomfortable. There are no real concerns to be had until the contraction lasts for over a minute or two and start to get closer together:) being dehydrated makes the worse or can cause them. If you are before 37weeks and think you are having contractions just go in. Not worth the risk of possible preterm labor!

These are all words from a labor and delivery RN! She told me first hand after being hospitalized for extrem dehydration and possible preterm birth (I'm having twins so already high risk). Hope this helps! :)

Answer

I'm a first time mom as well and I'm wondering the same thing. I know all bodies are different. I've been having BH for about the past 3 or 4 hours. I'm not really paying them any attention because they don't hurt. However I do feel pressure, constant pressure because he is VERY LOW. I'm 40-4, welp 40-5 since its 1202am here and I lost my mucus plug after a membrane sweep at 40-2.

Answer

They'll be strong nd you won't be able to do much during a real one

How do I know?

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