33 Weeks Pregnant: When to Rush to the Hospital & Understanding Labor Signs

Question
I am now in my 33rd week. I would like to know upon getting what sympthom or sign should I rush myself to hospital. Now when I get stomach ache I worried. Confused and scared may be its labor sign or just normal toilet business. Pls advice.

Answer
Hello Mahirah. I would very much like to know WHY you did not take prenatal classes- please get back to me with this answer. As your pregnancy advances, you will notice that your belly is very hard and tight sometimes- not really uncomfortable, just tight. These are practice contractions. They will become stronger and more frequent as the weeks go by. In late pregnancy when you are sitting still, you will notice them even more.Eventually they will be accompanied by a low back ache or the feeling that you are going to get your period. Gradually they will become very regular and continue to get stronger. Get up, have a warm bath- if they go away, go to bed and rest. If they continue and grow stronger in the warm water, you are starting labor. DO NOT run to the hospital at that point. Stay home until the contractions have been 5 minutes apart for a full two hours and each one is at least 45 seconds long. The average first labor is 16-18 hours of active labor, so you have LOTS of time. Hope that helps- Cheri.