Speeding up early labor

[TeresaRose]

Baby number 2 40 weeks tomorrow and seriously struggling to cope much more with early labor, have had extremely painful cramps and back ache which are constant this past 4 days, lost my mucus plug on monday/tuesday and been having frequent painful tightenings that keep just fizzling out, tips to get things really going, been on the ball all morning, tried sex, curry, warm baths, and about to try a long walk, any other tips?

Oh forgot to mention I've been 2cm and fully engaged and effaced since Sunday night!

I was like that with both DDs. A sweep got me going both times.

We're you able to request one? I don't have another hospital appt until Friday where im hoping they will give me one then with being over due but don't think I Can put up with these pains another week :-(

Walk, walk, walk and more walking! Let gravity help you along.

I would walk, walk and walk some more or do some vigorous housework.

In my case, avoiding baths was what did it. First baby, horrific 48 hours of early labour, pretty much lived in the bath. Wanted a water birth but had to get out as it was this stopping the contractions. Second baby, no water and a much quicker and less frustrating experience!

Yes, baths will ease the contractions but also slow and weaken them. I'd avoid baths until you're into established labour at this point.

I'd go see your midwife. I was in exactly the same position and after 3 days I went to the hospital begging for help. It turned out my bladder was blocked and not emptying properly which meant baby's head was not making contact with my cervix properly which delayed labour, and left my baby in distress. They had to give me a catheter and 12 hours later ds was in my arms.

Thank you all for the advice! Been for a massive walk and back bouncing on ball and pains seem to be more intense so will get another walk in again shortly, will try cutting out the baths too!