How long can early labour go on for?

[Wonderflonium]

I'm 38 + 4

Last week, I started getting period like pains and from that point on more and more symptoms of labour starting. (Sharp pain in cervix, diarrhoea, sharp back pain, Braxton Hicks, mild contractions, napping for England. No bloody show. No waters going.)

Last night, I was sure it was all kicking off because my contractions were starting to get more and more uncomfortable and more and more frequent, though nothing like a regular pattern.

How long can this go on for? My googling suggests it's a matter of hours/days but I've already had a week of it. CAN this go on for one week more?

I've got a midwife appointment today but I get the impression she'll be all "there there, first time mum" when it's more of a nerdy inquiry.

I had that for over 3 weeks with DS1 (sorry). If it's any consolation his was the easiest of my births and once it got going properly it was quick (just over 4 hours established labour).

Sounds like prodromal labour. Can last for days/weeks. Sorry! Hopefully it settles for you.

hehe, that's ok! It's good to know these things.

For me it went on for a few hours, but contractions were getting v regular. Hope it's soon for you!

From 26-41 weeks with dd1 and from 30-38 weeks with dd2.

Crikey, McBaby!

Weeks, 35-40 weeks with ds2 (ds1 induced and barely anything beforehand) 33-38 ds3, 25-34 ds4 and around 22-31 with DD. With all but first I was also losing my bloody show for 3 weeks or so.

P.s some people go within hours or days though.

With dd I was being examined by the registrar at 37 weeks when I had a Braxton Hicks so strong he was convinced I would be back and in labour during his shift. Dd was born and 40+4! Night after night of back and the, BHs every 10 minutes etc. Easy 5 hour labour though.