Signs of Labour at 37 Weeks: What You Need to Know
Introduction
As a pregnant woman, you're probably looking forward to the day when you'll finally get to meet your little bundle of joy. However, before that can happen, you'll need to go through labour. Labour is the process of giving birth, and it can be a long and difficult process. Knowing the signs of labour can help you prepare for the big day and ensure that you get the care you need.
When Does Labour Start?
Labour can start at any time after you reach 37 weeks of pregnancy. This is considered full term, and your baby is fully developed and ready to be born. However, some women go into labour earlier than this, and this is known as preterm labour. If you experience any signs of labour before 37 weeks, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Early Signs of Labour
Labour can start with a variety of different symptoms, and these can vary from woman to woman. Some of the most common early signs of labour include:
- Contractions: These are the most common sign of labour. They feel like menstrual cramps or a tightening sensation in your abdomen. They may start out feeling mild and irregular, but they will become stronger and more regular as labour progresses.
- Bloody show: This is a sign that your cervix is starting to dilate. You may notice a pinkish or brownish discharge when you go to the bathroom.
- Water breaking: This is when the amniotic sac that surrounds your baby breaks, causing a gush of fluid from your vagina. This can happen before or after contractions start.
- Back pain: Some women experience back pain or pressure during labour.
- Nausea and vomiting: Some women experience these symptoms during labour, especially in the early stages.
Active Labour
Once you're in active labour, your contractions will become stronger and more regular. You'll also experience other signs of labour, such as:
- Increased vaginal discharge: This may be mucus or blood.
- Increased pressure in your pelvis: You may feel like your baby is pushing down.
- More intense back pain: This may be a sign that your baby is in the posterior position.
- Urge to push: You may feel like you need to have a bowel movement.
Transition
Transition is the most intense phase of labour. Your contractions will be very strong and close together, and you may feel like you can't take it anymore. Some women experience the following symptoms during transition:
- Shaking or trembling
- Feeling hot or cold
- Feeling nauseous or dizzy
- Feeling like you can't control your breathing
Pushing and Delivery
Once you're fully dilated, you'll start pushing. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Some women experience the following symptoms during this stage of labour:
- Increased pressure in your pelvis
- Feeling like you need to push
- Burning or stinging sensation as your baby's head crowns
- Relief as your baby is born
Conclusion
Knowing the signs of labour can help you prepare for the big day and ensure that you get the care you need. Remember, labour is a natural process, and your body is designed to do this. Trust in your body and your healthcare provider, and you'll be holding your little one in no time!
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