What was early labour like for you

[sunshinevalentine]

I have had regular period cramps since 8am this morning - around every 5 minutes for
around 40ish seconds each. I haven't had any back ache, a show or leaked any water.

I had a bath this afternoon that calmed the cramps a lot but they have returned since getting out but not as regular. I'm 40 weeks today - could this be real labour or is it false labour? I don't want to get my hopes up that this is it but I can't help but wonder!

Isn't that why they don't let you get in the pool for a water birth too early, because it can stop the cramps? I could've got totally muddled though.

Mine was lower back ache from midnight-midday just on and off, then slowly the pains started travelling around to my tummy and becoming more regular and consistent pattern

Yep it sounds like your body might be getting ready...

If I can advise a little bit, I’d say do lots of walking, in the house or wherever you can, and some squatting down occasionally - if you can do it comfortably enough- (gets the babies head down onto your cervix)

Mine was like period cramps that got quite strong over a couple of days

Both of my children were early, but my water broke with them both. Good luck, OP!

@ had cramps like you but didnt get any back ache mine started on the thur and by early hrs on the sat it was full labour pain, the reason they dont let you in birthing pool to early is it can slow labour down and stop dilation however a bath is totally different as you can sit better without gravity pulling down is what midwife told me I had lots of baths at this part of my labour with my first, hopefully they will pick up tonight for you @sunshinevalentine

Sounds like your proper labour will begin overnight if you're anything like me. Get an early night.

Mine started as back pain, my water broke early on and I had the runs (tmi) all day. Eventually the pain moved around to the belly and became established labour.