Could I be in labour????

[Babi3]

Stupid question I know but, I’ve had lower back pain with occasional severe pressure for the last 35 hours on and off, occasional period pain type feeling and other times my tummy is just hard. Spoke to the hospital this afternoon and they just said take paracetamol. Tonight I can’t sleep at all, I know it’s warm and everyone is probably struggling but I just can’t shake this feeling that something is happening. I’m 39+3 and don’t really want to call the hospital again as I feel I’ll be wasting their time. Any ideas?

It could be the early stages. Is the pain regular? Does it come and go in regular intervals? Have you timed it? The early stage can last a long time and unfortunately you're not classed as active labour until 4cm dialated or your waters break. If you are concerned, or the pain gets too much, definitely phone back! That is what they're there for. Aww I hope it is and you meet your little baby soon

I also found that keeping moving helped speed it up for me. When I lay down the early stage slowed and contractions stopped. It isnt the same for everyone and I guess you need to try different things to see what works best for you.

Sounds like early labour. Keep calm, listen to your body. If you can't sleep consider putting on a comedy film. The film will distract and Laughter is great and releases hormones.

If you can't settle, I would get up and move around as much as possible if able. Clean some cupboards, dust, stretch, walk around, whatever. It will help things move along.

Thanks all. Managed to get a couple of hours sleep inbetween the pain. It’s not regular which is annoying and was making me wonder whether it was labour or not. Think today is going to be a lot of pottering around and on the birthing ball again! Need this baby out now, I don’t know how much longer I can put up with this stage before the fun really starts xx

Keep an eye on your baby’s movements they can get tired with a long slow labour which is what it sounds like. Don’t worry about wasting the midwives time it is literarily their job to look after you and baby x