Understanding Potential Preterm Labor Symptoms at 28 Weeks

Question
i am 23, this is my first child and the date of my period was
august 22, 2004. i am at 28 weeks, i think!

i have been having dull gas like pains since last night. they start
in my lower abdomen, where gas pains would normally be, but
then it feels like it is wrapping itself around me and goes to my
sides and even down my thighs a little once in a while. it isn't
unbarable pain, it's dull. just like gas paina. but i am not having
any gas and i don't need to go to the bathroom. my ribs and
back have been hurting really bad as well. am i in preterm labor?

Answer
If your last period started on August 22, you are,indeed, 28 weeks gestational age. You may have gas pains that are giving you the pain. Try some Mylanta to relieve the gas. If you start to have contractions (hardening at the level of your belly button) more frequently than every 10 minutes, and each contraction remains hard (like your forehead) for more than 45 seconds, and this continues for more than one hour, you should check with your doctor to rule out preterm labor. First make sure that you drink plenty of fluids (dehydration can cause preterm labor). If you have any doubts, check with your doctor.