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I'll know when I'm having contractions, right?
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Anonymous
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FTM (obviously), 10 days from my due date. I'm having a lot of pelvic pressure/pain today as well as some tightening in my lower belly - not the whole uterus. I haven't felt this before and it doesn't go away if I eat/change position. I don't think I'm having contractions but I don't know for sure. Anyone care to shed some light on this? FWIW, I have had A LOT of increased mucus this week but haven't lost my mucus plug (as least I don't think I have).
I think this is just Braxton Hicks but really, I have no idea. Thanks in advance! |
Anonymous
| Awww, this is so cute. YES you will know. It is a sensation like no other. Don't go to the hospital until it's intolerable, though. GL. |
Anonymous
| I'm right there with you and could have written this. Tightening across the VERY bottom of my belly, usually starting on one side like a bad stitch. And a lot of what feel like period cramps. I feel so dumb (and I'm sure all the BTDT moms think it's so naive, ha!) |
Anonymous
| Actually, some people aren't sure they are contractions until they are pretty far down the road. And some people don't get to intolerable until they are already 6 cms. |
Anonymous
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I'd write down the frequency and length. It's different for everyone. Also, I never saw my mucus plug so don't count on it as an indicator.
BOL |
Anonymous
| PP here. IMO 6 cm is the perfect time to go to the hospital! |
Anonymous
Maybe not if it is a second or third baby! For OP, maybe. |
Anonymous
| I didn't know - I went in for a routine appointment after what I thought were BH and I was 6 cm dilated. I had the baby about eight hours later. |
Anonymous
How do you know how far you've dialated if you're at home? |
Anonymous
OP here... why my body didn't come with a manual I don't understand 
Thanks for the input - the tightening is still continuing and now, I do feel it at the top of my belly. Also, forgot to mention that at my appointment last week, I was already 3 cm dilated and 50% effaced. It's probably just my body getting ready but it would sure be nice to know. |
Anonymous
| This is exciting, OP! Let us know if it keeps going. |
Anonymous
| I think you should call your doctor & see how they advise you! Good luck! |
Anonymous
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You will know. It is SUCH a different sharpness - it will cause you to stop, pause, and swallow HARD, and then it will happen again and again. I called my husband and said, "this pain is not a joke!" (and went on to have a drug-free delivery).
Incidentally, I have the same due date as you, but with #2. I am experiencing all of the same things, plus nausea - although I have declined cervical checks so not sure about that. I do not expect to go early (or, if so, only 1-2 days early), although of course it's possible. Enjoy these last days and take care of yourself! |
Anonymous
| Mine came on gradually starting with a general crampy feeling. So it could be the beginning. |
Anonymous
| Time them. Write it down. And if you can't sleep through them, call the doctor. CONGRATULATIONS!!! Your life is about the change in the MOST incredible way... |