start of labour??

[FirstTimeMummyToBe]

hi i am 38+1 and have had an ache at the lower half of my belly for about 3/4 hours now.

It feels like strong period pains but its constantly there. Also feels like i constantly need to go to the toliet.

I have had quite strong braxton hicks for the past few days on and off.

I am wondering could this be the start of labour or am i just wishful thinking??

I have no idea (first pregnancy) but didn't want your post to go unanswered and wanted to wish you luck if it is!

Well aches and pains are a sign of labour...however they can also last 24 hours if this is the case.

My rule of thumb is, until I have a "show" or regular contractions, to just chill out, take some paracetamol and a bath and see how you feel.

I did this with my son and woke up 9.5cms dilated. Luckily I was having a home birth so was in the right place!!

Sounds like my symptoms the day before I went into labour with DD2. good luck!

exquisitecake - fab name

thank you for the replys. still nothing :( went for a bath last night and they didnt ease very much so heres hoping something happens today :)

Any news?!

I can't help noticing the time in which you posted.

i never noticed the time thats strange :)

Nothing yet had more pains this morning and called triage she said like it sounds like the start of labour so hopefully the next couple of days!

Oh well that's good :) Keep moving about in little stints in that case, really get it going.

Keep us posted!