QuestionQUESTION: Hi,
I am 33 weeks 1 day. I went to the Dr. today because I was having contractions about 3-5 minutes apart. He did a vag. exam and I am 1-2cm dialated...then he did an ultrasound and the baby weighs 4lbs 10ounces. Then he did a cervical length, and it was 3.1. And last week it was 3.7 so my question is .....is that a big change and should I be concerned that I am in early labor? I am still contracting this evening and I am extremely sick, but I was this way at his office today as well, and he didnt seem to be bothered by it. So do you think I will make it to my due date on 11/18? Btw this is my 3rd pregnancy...I have a 2 yr old delivered at 35 weeks and I lost one at 18 weeks. And one more question.......could these contractions just be BH?
ANSWER: Dear Jen,
If the contractions do not dissipate when you change your activity (if resting, try walking around or if on feet, try resting), then it sounds like it is true labor and not Braxton Hicks. Here are some signs of true labor:
-Contractions come regularly, usually 4-6 minutes apart and can become closer together. Usually last 30-70 seconds.
-Contractions become stronger with time. You may also feel vaginal pressure.
-Contractions continue no matter what position changes you make or how much you drink.
If you are less than 35 weeks pregnant and you have regular contractions lasting more than 30 seconds and occurring more than 4-6 times an hour, try resting and drinking lots of fluids. If this doesn't help, you should always call your doctor.
On the other hand, Braxton Hicks are described as:
-Irregular in intensity
-Infrequent
-Unpredictable
-Non-rhythmic
-More uncomfortable than painful
-They do not increase in intensity, or frequency
-They taper off and then disappear altogether
They are not believed to have any connection with dilating the cervix, but may have some effect on the softening of the cervix. However, as Braxton Hicks contractions become more intense closer to the time of delivery, the contractions are considered "false labor", which can help in the dilation and effacement process.
Since you have given birth before, I'd recommend using your previous labor as a guideline for labor. On average, 2nd babies come in about half the time it took for the 1st. This will help you in determining how quickly you feel you must get to the hospital.
Your cervix still has a ways to go, but dilation to 1-2 cm at 33 weeks is plenty. The shortening from 3.7 to 3.1 isn't anything to panic about. It definitely won't hurt anything to stay down as much as possible during these last weeks - at least until you get to 37 weeks. I would assume that your doctor will be watching you closely/frequently now with your history of a 35 week delivery.
I hope this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thank you for your response.
I went to do a urine test today to see if maybe this is why my lower abdomen is hurting so bad and my lower back as well. I am still contracting, and was put on Cardizem about a week ago.For the past 4 days I have been EXTREMELY sick, vomiting...VERY dizzy, light headed VERY pale and not eating much of anything, so I researched the info on Cardizem, and found out that I may be having an allergic reaction to this drug and my pulse has been around 125 all day. With this all said the dr. really hurt my feelings......he basically said i'm not in any kind of labor, because I had a NEG. FFN and there was a trace of blood, a trace of Luek, and a trace of protien in my urine, so he doesnt believe there is any infection, even though it hurts to urinate!! And he said I was costing A THOUSANDS for all they are doing for a preg. person who doesnt seem to have anything wrong! So I asked him....then why am I dialated 1-2?? Why am I SO SICK?? And why am I having contractions?? His response..."I dont know"!!
Am I crazy...Brenda? Am I freaking out over nothing?? Or is this dr. just a big jerk who is being very rude to his patient??
AnswerDear Jen,
Wow - I'm at a loss for words. Were you put on the Cardizem for high blood pressure? The symptoms may very well be related to the medication, but may not necessarily by an "allergy" as much as as side effects. You may need an adjustment in dosage to reduce the side effects or a change to another BP medication. Did you discuss this possibility with your doctor?
It does sound like there is not a very good communication situation going on between you and your doctor. It is extremely important that we feel comfortable and secure in the care of our physicians. If you do not feel that way, there is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking a 2nd opinion. We are consumers of health care and sometimes it seems like we are more apt to fire a plumber or lawn service before we get a 2nd opinion about our health care. That is something I have a hard time understanding. If you do not feel completely cared for and comfortable with the doctor you are seeing, you should seek out another opinion as to your condition and appropriate care. Talk to friends/relatives you trust in getting a referral to another OB doctor in your area that might suit your needs/preferences.
I hope this information has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
