Any insight? Please read!

I’m currently 37+2 with baby #2. At 36+4 I was 2-3 cm and 70% effaced. That night I had lots of contractions, went to hospital and nothing happened. Hadn’t dilated more but was definitely contracting. That night and next day I had some light pink spotting.

I’ve been loosing tons of mucus plug as well, huge chunks every time i wipe. Super crampy. Especially right now, lower back pain/cramps and lower pelvic cramps. Some tightening.

My husband is in the field for 3 weeks so if I want him to come home in time I need to call with enough time if that makes sense so try to catch labor when I’m in early labor.

Do I sound close? How will I know when I’m close? With my first I had no idea lol. Still don’t.