Understanding Pre-Labor Signs at 37 Weeks

Question
Hi Harriet.
I am 37 weeks pregnant with my first child, i have been experiencing menstrual like cramping for the last 4 days, although it does not have a definite pattern, i have woken in the night finding it really difficult to roll over without getting a sharp pain in either side. throughout the day they come and go but some are more painful then others. i have also been having alot of frequent bowl movements for just as long, but i would not class this as diohrea. i have not had and bloody discharge, but have been getting alot more white thick mucus over this period of time. Does this mean that labour could be close? or is it all a normal sign of pregnancy? I am really anxious to find out! Thanks

Tegan  

Answer
Hi Tegan,

You do have the signs, however this doesn't always mean that labor is about to start, it may take days or weeks before it begins. It's a good reminder to have everything ready for labor and birth. Continue your normal routines, get lots of rest, eat and drink well, nurture yourself in these precious days before the baby arrives.