QuestionHi again Brenda,
I am now 35 weeks, I was admitted to the hospital 4 days ago with contractions. I was 2cm and 80% effaced and a -3 station.They put me on MAG...and took me off the MAG yesterday because of break through contractions. Today I am 4 cm, 100% and 0 station. I was checked @ 4pm and contracting about every 5-7 minutes. There was no change. So I asked if I could just go home. And so they did let me go home, my question is....How long do you think I will go before delivery? days? or weeks? And is sex ok at this point? Is bathing in a tub ok too? Thank you so much!
AnswerDear Ila,
With premature contractions, I would not recommend inserting anything into the vaginal canal, including sexual intercourse.
I would also recommend showers rather than baths to minimize the chance of infection in case a slow leakage of amniotic fluid may start or if there would be any compromise in the integrity of the amniotic sac since the pressure of the baby is much greater on it now. Once in labor, it is fine to be in water if you know you'll be delivering soon, but at 35 weeks you do not want to hasten the process.
There really is no way for me, or anyone, to say when you will deliver. I am definitely hopeful that you and your doctor will be able to delay delivery until you are at 37 weeks (anything after 37 weeks is essentially considered full-term). Babies born between 34-36 weeks often weigh between 4 1/2 and 6 pounds, and they may still appear thinner than full-term babies. These babies remain at higher risk than full-term babies for newborn health problems, including breathing and feeding problems, difficulties regulating body temperature, and jaundice. These problems are usually mild, and most babies make a quick recovery. Most of these babies can be breast- or bottle-fed, although some (especially those with mild breathing problems) may need tube-feeding for a brief time. It is estimated that at 35 weeks gestation, the weight of the brain is only around 60% that of term infants. But don't panic if labor cannot be stopped - these babies usually do pretty well after the initial difficult period.
So, try to take it as easy as possible so as to not start up those contractions again. Drink plenty of water/fluids to stay well hydrated. And enjoy these last days of pregnancy. It is such a special time.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well and a blessed delivery.
Brenda
