How long were you in beginning stages of labor?

Last week I had an appointment and dr said I was “in early stages” of labor and baby could be coming soon, if baby wasn’t here by next appointment we’d schedule to be induced.

I have contractions then they’ll stop. Pick up a few hours later or sometimes next day. I now have another appointment today to see how things are going and to discuss a induced date (I’m 37weeks)

How long was anyone in “”early stages of labor”” before the real thing came on?

I always thought early stages I’d be in the hospital within a few hours but guess not 😐