QuestionI have been on bed rest since I was 4 months pregnant due to early contractions (first was told they were Braxton Hicks then told actual contractions). Now I am 37 weeks and have been 2cm dilated a week ago , I get VERY strong painful contractions that last up to 3-4 minutes and range from 1-2 mins apart to 15-20 minutes apart (its very frustrating). I have been in and out of hospital for "checks" but always sent home after few hours when contractions eventually die down. My plug is out, but I see so many different docs that I don't seem to get the right or comforting answers. My baby is apparently in position and every thing has thinned out and is ready to go. This is my second pregnancy (first one went totally fine and smooth and he was two weeks early). Can you tell me if I am going through first stage of labor? If you think I will deliver soon (original due date Jan 25th and its Jan 8th today)? And is it possible to be dilated and "ready to go" if it is just false labor?
AnswerHello!
Well, if you were on bedrest, I will assume you were also on medication to stop labor? If that is the case it's not unusual for there to be some false starts and stops.
Labor need contractions that are strong, longer and closer together. It IS possible that some braxton hicks contractions can cause some cervical changes, but they won't result in birth.
I don't like to call it "false labor" as Braxton Hicks are your bodies way to help prepare for labor.
You could have your baby anytime. It could be days or weeks. Only your baby knows.
I wish I could tell you exactly, but it just doesn't work that way.
If you have contractions and they stop, try to remember that they are helping you get a GREAT head start on true labor. Your body is working just fine :)
GOOD LUCK and CONGRATULATIONS!
