Has labour started?

[handbagCrab]

Hi,

I'm 39+3 today and it's my first baby. I've been having cramps on and off for the last week or so along with braxton hicks.

Today I have backache and I'm having what feel like braxton hicks but they're not as quick. Also squeezing sensations down the sides of my abdomen. It's all coming and going though. It feels like a cross between period pain and indigestion and isn't incapacitating.

Is this more of my body preparing itself or could it be the start of labour?

Thanks for your help :)

I'm a first timer too. But couldn't let you remain unanswered!
Contractions feel different to different people, but back ache is very common. Start timing them.
Call your maternity ward for advice. They can answer any questions. Inevitably they will tell you to take some paracetamol and have a bath, and to call back when the contractions are 3 mins apart.
All the best for a happy and healthy birth!
Good luck!

Have a bath - if the contraction feelings stop during the bath then you're not going in to labour if they continue in the bath then you are. That was the tip from my midwife when I was overdue & it helped to know I could test it easily.
Gooooood luck! :-)

Thanks :)

Good luck.........as someone who is 39+1 I have everything crossed for you that it is and that it goes smoothly :)

I think it may be the start

Sounds promising!
How are you feeling now?

Sorry to disappoint but it all stopped when I had a bath and had nothing today so far! I hope it's a good sign though that I won't go too far over and have to be induced (crosses fingers, but not legs) :)

Nevermind!
Good luck for when it all starts. :)

And let us know when it gets going...we love a live labour thread!