I know they say you'll know when you're in labour but...

[Fairy130389]

I have been having strong continuous period pains and lower backache radiating to thighs for a couple of days now, they have got worse today. I also have a lot of pressure in my pelvis and it hurts to walk or sit. I'm also having strong braxton hicks today... And a lot of discharge (sorry for tmi!) 39+4 btw! Do you think this is it or just more 'practicing'?? Bloody fed up of being so uncomfortable now!

Possible practice. But certainly imminent. Contractions take your breath away, its difficult to talk or do anything apart from breathing, until it fades away, and you feel normal, until the next one.

Sounds a little more than practicing but I don't want to get your hopes up

They say you know but when I was contracting in hospital I really should have known considering I was being induced but I was adamant that I in fact had a UTI and that was what was causing the pain!

The midwife was bloody lovely but she must have had a good giggle at my expense back in the staff room!

I only accepted I was in labour when I couldn't concentrate on coronation street. Dh had been pleading to be allowed to call the midwife for a good few hours by then!

Hmm... I think I have now had 4 bh in an hour, the thing is, they don't seem to link with the period pain, which whilst is getting more painful is definitely continuous, to coming and going... It's just so confusing!!

Sorry, period pain is continuous, not coming and going

I started off with period pain, so things could be moving!

Sounds like you have started?

How long from the period pain to actual identifiable contractions?

I had period pain the day before my water s broke and I went into labour. Good luck.

It's so hard to be sure. If this is your first then its common for things to take a while to establish. It's very annoying, I remember it too well.

Things will start to regulate. The pains will match the tightening. The intensity will increase and everything will happen closer together.

I'd say it was your body getting ready. Something is happening but its not established yet. How long this wi take is anyone's guess.