Is this the start of labour?

[LoveYouHoneybear]

38 + 4 with my second baby. With my first my waters broke and then the contractions started soon after- very straightforward and no mistaking labour! With this pregnancy, I lost my mucus plug yesterday and then was up in the night from 9pm with waves of mild period-like cramps. I thought for SURE this was the start of things but then around 12am the cramps just went away? And now I haven't felt anything since. What is happening?! Still haven't lost any waters. Any advice or has anyone experienced similar? Thanks so much.

I have no idea as I've always been induced but I believe 2/3 inductions didn't work and I sort of went into labour on my own. What I remember is period pains coming quite frequently then going into stronger contractions going round the front and back more and more frequently but they never ever stopped. I'd say if they have stopped it's probably your body getting ready but not so ready yet to start off. I'd say you are close though x

Sounds like the start of the start but it could be days yet.

I suspect so. Mine always start in the night. With my 3rd I had a night of contractions which then ground to a halt when the kids got up. When they started the next night I got them out the way asap.
If you’ve lost your plug, sounds like your body is gearing up. I would optimise if you want to push on my trying to rest/relax. I found this let my body work rather than trying to push yourself to walk etc.

I lost my mucous lug multiple times from 32 weeks. Midwives said they can grow back. I also had intermittent period like pains for last month. May be start of labour or could be braxton hicks

So hard to know isn’t it? With all 3 of mine my plug went just a few hours before. My waters never go till I’m fully dilated/the midwives arrive- then each time have gone with a bang!
So mine all followed a very similar pattern.

Thanks for the replies, all. Sounds like my body is gearing up but it could be a little while yet. Sure as hell hope this mucus plug doesn't grow back!! Definitely going to relax today (as much as my toddler will allow).

My plug went weeks before, had similar with the surges a couple times and was nothing. Finally ended up having regular 10 minute contractions which became every 5, that was the difference to previous times. My water never ended up going first this time. My mucus plug also went again during labour so guessing it was just coming apart and regenerating every time.