Is it, isn't it?

[LittleMilla]

I am 37+4 and think I might be in early labour, but am unsure. So any mums that can proffer their views, I'd much appreciate it.

For weeks and weeks I've been getting BHs that have simply come and gone. Last night they were particularly full-on, but went to bed normally. Woke up for my regular wee at about 1:30am but couldn't settle again. Kept on getting (about every 10 mins) period-type pain where my ovaries normally are - alternate sides. These would then 'sweep' across my tummy, hardening everything, then ease off. As i'd imagine contractions to be. Also had quite hot flushes and it felt good - I could feel baby jiggle down a bit with each one.

Carried on until about 5:30am, when I managed to nod off again until 9am. Shattered now, but planning to go back to bed.

I've still got a dull ache in lower abdomen which hasn't gone away despite a walk and much bouncing on.

No show or water. However, last 48 hours I've been to the loo (as in number 2) very regularly - not upset tummy...but I just feel like my body isn't letting anything stay in.

Tired and want to try and go back to bed, but would appreciate ANY thoughts from those that have been through this before. Also, apologies for posting this . I have looked back at some OP's posts but just couldn't find the answers I'm looking for.

Thanks in advance x

I haven't had this myself, as my first sign with my DD was that my waters broke and then I had contractions! But it does sound like everything is gearing up for you!!! Hope it happens soon xx

It sounds like it could be to me. I was very similar with my first. All day I wasn't 'right', restless but tired... And in the afternoon I had frequent trips to do a poo. Are you timing all possible contractions? Mine didn't follow a pattern so I didn't think it could be labour.

I'd have a nice bath.

My waters broke about 30mins before my first child was born. They had to break them with my second child. And I had nice quick easy births - so hope you do too.

I don't think it sounds like definite labour to be honest. I think it could just be very late pregnancy combined with Braxton Hixes. If you are wondering whether or not they are contractions - they probably aren't! And not sure you can have contractions on alternate sides (although not medically qualified).

On the other hand...it could be! In some ways it wouldn't be surprising if you had a baby later today...or in three more weeks.

The midwife leading my antenatal refresher class this week (I'm 35 weeks with baby number 2) said that you can only tell if you are in labour if you are having regular, painful contractions. A show, waters breaking, general uncomfortableness - not signs that you are in labour (although signs you might be going to go into labour in the next few days).

Also, lack of show or lack of waters breaking doesn't mean you can't be in labour. Many women don't have shows. My waters didn't break until I was in very established labour (ie when my contractions were 3 mins apart lasting a minute each).

Agree that you should definitely rest / have a bath etc - it could be a while!

How are you feeling now?

Thanks all for your replies, I appreciate it.

Had a sleep and feeling like it's a false alarm. My tummy is still tightening loads...but without the cramps so I know it's just braxton hicks. SO annoying.

Saying that, I have an insatiable hunger and still feel a bit off kilter. So it could simply be my body gearing up for something over the coming days. Who knows? Booked to have a pedicure at 4pm to take my mind off things .

Thanks again and I'll let you know if aything progresses or changes. x

Ooh yes we need updates. Lots of rest. Very soon you'll have none...