Apologies for the cliche posting...I am 39 weeks pregnant and just had internal exam.

[Anonymous]

The doctor said still not dialating from internal exam. I am 70% effaced. I am having cramping last few weeks on and off and now after exam having "spotting' which isn't just a dot but isn't a huge amount to indicate plug being lost either. Any similar experiences here? Obviously like everyone else i am emotionally ready for labor.

[Anonymous]

I was effaced but only 1cm dilated when I started having contractions every 5 minutes! Unfortunately, I managed to not dilate past two cm after two days of constant contractions so they induced me and broke my water. You never know when you might go into labor and I don't think that being dilated means that you'll definitely go into labor or not being dilated means that you'll not go into labor. My sister was 4cm dilated nad 80% effaced for 4 weeks before she went into labor. Try to relax and enjoy the last few days before you have the hectic life of having a newborn. It will happen soon

[Anonymous]

I was not effaced or dilated at all my 39 week appointment, and two days later I had my baby! So you never know...

[Anonymous]

When I had my internal exam at almost 41 weeks (yup!) I went into labor that night. I think sometimes whatever they do in there gets you going...

[Anonymous]

OP here and thank you each for your fantastic feedback, which has made such a difference. I am taking a deep breath and will learn to be patient i know it will happen one way or another ...the exams just pysch you out when you are already on edge.