Is this the start of labour?

[xxx28xxx]

I feel a bit silly asking this as I always thought it would be obvious but here goes!

I'm 41+1 today and had my second sweep around mid day, cervix pretty favourable and she gave me a really good sweep apparently. Anyway for past couple of hrs I've had period type pains in lower back which sometimes go round to lower tummy or undercarriage area. I've taken paracetamol which has done zilch so had a bath, pains went but now starting back again. I don't think I can time the pain as its quite constant in my lower back rather than coming and going. I just feel uncomfortable and in discomfort rather than agony. Do u think this could be the start of it and if so when do I call hosp, when I can time the pain?

Waters still in tact and have been losing my plug for couple of days now. Any advice would be great, sounds daft but I don't want to call hosp until pains become more obvious plus baby moving lots like normal,

Tia

Hi 28

I think it is the start but early stage, relax, take panadol, warm bath and sleep

When you feel the slight pains coming on maybe ring the hospital after timing them
Wishing you a safe and healthy delivery xxx

I meant coming on fairy regular (I think it was fifteen mins apart when we set off for hospital but I don't know what is recommended)

Sounds like it! You can call the hospital any time, they're there to help and advise. Try keeping a note of when the cramping pains are coming and going. It'll give you something to concentrate on and will help when you phone the hospital. Good luck!

Sounds like the way my first labour started, think you may be on your way!!

I just checked nhs website for you. They recommend waiting until five mins apart and lasting 45 to 60 seconds but we live rurally so no wy did I wait !! So exciting for you

Thanks all, feel a little more reassured that I'm not being over dramatic now lol. I'm going to try and get some sleep now in the hope it all ramps up during the night, am heading for induction on sat so really hoping this is the start!

Thanks again :)

Good luck!! How exciting x

It could be but it could just be that your cervix has been irritated by the sweep. Get done rest and see what happens in the morning x