irregular contractions - when are you supposed to call the hospital?

[Funbags]

DD1 was induced so I dont have a clue how a natural labour starts off like or what early contractions feel like (went from 0-100 in 5 minutes last time so straight to epidural).

I've been mildly crampy since weds, then from about 3-4 am this morning have had contractions on and off. I slept between the early ones, they have been in fits and starts all day some 10 or 15 mins apart, some 5 apart and a spate with none at all for an hour and a half. had some bloody, watery loss which is now turned to a clear pink jelly (sorry for tmi).

Am ok during contrations if I breathe thru them but cant carry on doing what ever it is I am doing when they come, and need to grab hold of something to steady myself. They are lasting 20-50 seconds.

Any advice??

Sounds like you are on your way.

I read that you should call when you cna't manage on your own anymore but ime it would depend on what labours you have had before.

I had to go in with number 2 as soon as I had my show and with number 3 I went in after all night contracting.

My contraction never really established any type of pattern with DD2.

I would say hang on at home as long as you can, but im probably not the best person to advice! DD2 was delivered at home by to wonderfull paramedics LOL.

Just try and rest whenever you can, and make sure you remember to eat.

How exciting!! definatley sounds like this is it!! IMO, good luck xx

i was told whenthey got to thepoint they made me stop doing something to go in - good luck

Hi just joined the website. the usual advice given by midwives is that you should prob be contracting about 3 to 4 in ten minutes lasting 50-60 seconds. You don't say if your waters have ruptured? If they have you need to ring the unit at the hospital for advice, if not how are you mananging the pain? If you are really worried you can ask to be assessed but they may send you home if you are not in 'established labour' with some pain relief and something to help you sleep! a warm bath may help, make sure you eat and drink especially to keep hydrated. Good luck x

Its worth calling them - they won't mind good luck - don't forget to sing happy birthday!!

Forget the contractions - if you are having "bloody, watery loss" your waters may have broken, and you need to speak to the hospital NOW, they may well want you in.

When my waters broke they didn't gush out all in one - it came out a bit at a time - exactly like a "bloody, watery loss"

Sounds like you're on your way. With DS, my contractions weren't regualar, they fluctuated, but when I went in I was already 4cm dilated, so at the very least I'd call them. Good luck!!