The start of something....or wishful thinking? I should know better!!

[tiredchocoholic]

hi, I am 38 weeks today, pg with DC 3. Over the past few days I have had quite a few Braxton hicks, plus I am sure my bump has dropped....and I have also had diarrhea 3 times in less than 24 hrs (but don't feel ill). I realize, having been through labour twice before, that I really ought to know whether or not this could mean the start of something or nothing, but my DCs are aged 5 an 7 and I think I have suffered selective memory loss along the way!! Plus, with DC1 my waters broke very obviously & with DC 2 I had a number of false starts, partial waters breaking & ended up being induced....so perhaps I am less used to experiencing the more 'subtle' signs that labour may be imminent. This time around, Midwife appointments have been fairly few & far between & I haven't been able to attend any antenatal classes, either - so thought some of you wise MNers may be willing to share your thoughts.
TIA.
Ps - fwiw - DC1 was almost 2 wks early, DC2 was a couple of days early.

Anyone out there with some advice? Can't reach the midwife, hubby is not around and my parents (who are due to look after DC) are away for a couple of days.....just keen for some feedback as to whether I need to instigate contingency planning or if it's more likely this could go on for some time yet....
TIA

hello, didn't want to leave you unanswered,
Your symptoms could be sign that labour is close but tbh, I've had these on and off for the last two weeks with nothing to show for it (though i am earlier than you)
How far away is your dh? I think if your parents are away it might be worth thinking about alternatives (especially if both your previous were early).
Sorry, no use what so ever really.
Good luck

Sounds like classic 3rd baby to me. My mw told me ds3 would be on off for with random bouts of contractions and it was true. Had a week of them - from 39 weeks building up from strong bh in prior weeks. 4 nights I thought I'd be going to hospital and it all stopped when i lay down. When it did get going following sweep and sex (sorry tmi) then it was quick.

Ds4 was exactly the same too - a whole week of latent labour but he came at 38+3. No sweep but again sex got him moving.

Thanks, both of you!