Understanding Labor: 37 Weeks Pregnant - Mucus Plug & Early Labor Signs

Question
Hi,
I am 37 weeks and 1 day pregnant. This is my first baby, and I am a little
anxious about the labor and delivery part. I lost my mucous plug
approximately 2 weeks ago. I actually went to the hospital 3 days ago b/c I
thought I was leaking fluids. It just turned out to be a change in discharge.
While I was there they had me hooked up to the belly band and saw that I was
having contractions. They did a pelvic exam and saw that I was 2.5
centimeters dilated, and my cervix was ripening. The doc told me to go home
go for a walk and see if my contractions became a little more strong and
regular. She said she could be seeing me later on that evening or the next
day. Unfortunately as soon as I left the hospital my contractions stopped.
Since then I have noticed a lot of pressure in my lower abdomen/pelvic
region, and have been pretty crampy. My question is whether or not my labor
is near, and what I can expect when I actually do go into labor. Thank you so
much.

Answer
There is no way to tell whether or not your labor is near.  Could be tomorrow, could be next week.  Some women putter along with moderate contractions for weeks before finally going into active labor, even with dilation of 2 or 3 or even 4 centimeters.  You will know when it is the "real thing" when your labor takes your full attention.  You won't be able to carry on a conversation, or be hanging out on the computer, or focusing on anything outside your body.  When you hit this emotional signpost, you should be in active labor, usually around 4-5 cm dilated, and this is the best time to head on in to the hospital.