Shows - how soon can you expect things to kick off?

[fells]

I'm 41 weeks today and all last night and this morning I have experienced period type cramps. They last about 1 minute and at one point they were every 10 to 15 mins. I managed to fall asleep eventually but each time I got a cramp I woke up. Had sex a couple of hours ago (after eating half a pineapple!) and just been to the loo and think i have had a show. I always imagined the shown to be cork-shaped and the consistency of jelly cubes before they are cooked (!) but this was some thickish but clear discharge with a bit of blood in it. There was also some light blood in the loo. Sorry about the graphic descriptions! Could this have been a result of having sex (it was very gentle and didn't happen last week when we had sex!) or could it have been a show? If it is is there any point in getting excited or could it still be days before delivery?

In this last 24 hours I must have been to the toilet about 7 times for a number two too.

I wrote a message last week about shows... I think what you (and I) had is a show. But it doesn't necessarily mean everything will kick off soon. Mine was after sex too - perhaps that just loosens things?

I hope it is the start of things for you.

I was late too and tried everything I could think of to get things started, without success . I had a show like yours but nothing came of it IYSWIM - I dont think its the result of having sex.
Lots of poos is supposed to be one of the signs of impending labour though........

Milk of magnesia... enough for a laxative effect. Seemed to set me off, and cleared any worries of pooing during labour

I think this is it!

well? anything happening?

I went into labour 3 hours after having a show and dd2 was born 6 hours later .

With dd1 - I spent 20 mins on the loo with the "runs" and labour started immediately afterwards - she was also born 6 hours later.

Reckon you'll be well on your way by now. Good luck .

yes..I've been told to expect an emptying of the bowels as a sure sign of imminent labour..good luck..
(and i'm guessing as she hasnt responded to the thread the tiny tot could be on its way...)

good luck, fells!

Still at home wondering what is going on! Yes, suzi2 I wondered if sex had just loosened things up a bit. Just been for a long walk. Discharge now a bit more of a browny colour. Still having cramps but not as often, have a bit of back ache and dragging sensation in upper thighs. Generally feel quite stiff and achey. I'm seeing midwife tomorrow for a sweep so I'm sure she'll be able to tell me if things are underway! Hopefully I won't need the sweep!