Early Labour and Dh's Paternity Leave

[mrsbean78]

Hi

I am 40+6 and think I am at the very start of labour. Have been having mild contractions on and off for about a week but overnight they've become more regular, approx 45 secs every 10 mins. Powerful an becoming more so but not exactly excruciating so imagine I have a long way to go and I know it can be at this stage for a few days, if not longer.

My question is, when do I ask dh to stay with me and/or come home if things are heating up if waters don't go? How does this work with paternity leave? I don't really understand it to be honest! Any help greatly appreciated, thanks!

I think it depends on his work to be honest. I was in latent labour from the Tues afternoon, had LO on the Thurs morning. But DH phoned work on the Weds am and said he wasn't going in as he hadn't slept all night, also we did think we'd have Lo by Weds evening so I wanted him with me! His work said they can only start the paternity leave from the following Monday so paid him for 3 days holiday on the Wed, Thur and Fri. I would ask DH to be with you as soon as you think, unless your mum or someone could be with you for a while? I know a lot of 1st labours are said to be slow, but I've got lots of friends who had pretty quick 1st labours! Also waters may not go until you're ready to push! If you maybe have a bath and see if it comes to a halt, then you'll know whether it's the real thing or not (hopefully!) Goodluck...how exciting!!!