As every pregnant woman approaches the last few weeks of pregnancy, she begins to get anxious and impatient. If only we knew exactly when we would be meeting our little ones! Doctors give us due dates and our bodies give us signs, but what are the real signs that you’re about to have a baby? Here are some medical and not so medical labor signs to look for.
Braxton-Hicks Contractions: These practice contractions can start to occur as often as every 20 minutes when baby is getting closer to making his or her arrival. With my first pregnancy, I never noticed these. This time around, I can tell you when they occur. My belly becomes tight and almost numb for just a few seconds. These contractions may feel like menstrual cramps, as well, but remember unless they become regular, well-organized and closer together, you’re not in labor yet.
Bye-Bye Mucous Plug and Hello Bloody Show: Our bodies are amazing, don’t get me wrong. But, I just have to say….yuck. As your body prepares for labor, you may notice a large amount of discharge. Many women lose their mucous plug gradually and others lose it mostly at once. If you notice any blood-tinged discharge, this is likely your bloody show. These are actually great signs! Your cervix is beginning to dilate and efface. Labor isn’t too far away! I’ve noticed one of these already.
Your Water Breaks: With my daughter, I was clueless with most of this. I happened to be at home in the restroom when my water decided to break. It wasn’t anything like I had seen in the movies. There was no giant gush. It was more like a trickle. Your water breaking signifies that the fluid in the amniotic sac has ruptured. Contractions are usually coming, if they haven’t started by this point. It’s time to call your midwife or doctor!
Fussiness: In my opinion, you just get kind of fussy the last few weeks of pregnancy. I don’t think we mean to. All of a sudden, the slightest thing could bother you or you may be just a little moody. You may cry easily. It’s normal. It’s okay. You’re about to experience a life changing event! Just apologize to those you love. They’ll understand.
Lack of Motivation: If you’re like me, the last few weeks of pregnancy are much more tiring. A few weeks ago, I had lists prepared of things to do. I needed to prep my cloth diapers, assemble baby gear, buy last minute things. Now, all I want to do is nap. I yearn for sleep and it doesn’t come easily at night. I have decided that my son’s nursery is as good as it’s getting, and I’m okay with that. Take a break, momma. It’s okay to get in some rest now.
Well, ladies, one more week until my due date. Pregnancy is an amazing miracle and I am so blessed to get to experience it, but I’m ready to get this baby out!
Here’s a little humor: What’s the difference between a woman who’s 9 months pregnant and a supermodel?
Nothing, if her husband knows what’s good for him!
Karyn Meyerhoff is a mom of one and one almost here! She can’t wait to meet her little man.
