36 weeks - dull period pains

[B65]

I’m 36 weeks and have been experiencing dull period pains in my lower abdomen. They’re not regular and just come and go. I’ve had a little bit of lower back ache too. My ankles also swelled for the first time yesterday & I’ve been having a lot of short sharp shooting pains down below. Could this be the start of something happening? Should I contact my midwife?

You can always contact your midwife for reassurance but this is completely normal at this stage and unlikely to be a sign of labour. I am 38 weeks and have had exactly the same for the last two weeks or so :-)

Agree with PP, but the swelling I'd talk to them about - especially if it came on suddenly or is severe

Dull period pains could be braxton hicks. The back pain would be fairly common. I'd be concerned about the swelling though. Have you phoned your midwife today? Or phone the hospital number on your notes and ask to go in for a check if you're concerned. I went in a few times through both pregnancies - including during lockdowns - for various reasons. They were always so kind.

It sounds like the baby's head moving down into your pelvis - I definitely had shooting pains and cramps once that happened .
Definitely no harm in calling your midwife tomorrow though- the swollen ankles could be a sign of high blood pressure so always worth checking out x