STONE: Recognizing 'labor day'

If you are pregnant and close to term, you and your family may be wondering how to know when it is truly “labor day”. The most common symptoms of false labor are:

• Contractions are irregular and do not become more frequent or severe.
• Lower abdominal discomfort is not preceded by low back pain.
• Contractions may lessen with movement or change in position.

In contrast, the most common symptoms of real labor are:

• Contractions become more frequent, strong and regular.
• Pain starts in low back and moves to lower abdomen and possibly to legs.
• Contractions become more intense with activity and are not relieved when you change positions.

Be sure to call your doctor if you think you’re in real labor but aren’t 100 percent sure!

Call your doctor if:

• Your water breaks.
• You experience bright red vaginal bleeding.
• You experience swelling suddenly in your hands or face, blurry vision, or a severe headache.
• You experience five or more contractions in one hour before your 37th week of pregnancy.

If it turns out that it is time to deliver, here are some helpful hints on how to help the mom-to-be through labor!

Most women are in labor for hours prior to going to the hospital. Help by timing her contractions and look for ways to help her relax.

Women have different labor strategies that work for them. Help her to find the one that works for her.

When in labor, women may be more irritable. Don’t take it personally; it is just a way of coping with the pain.

It is OK to ask the doctor questions if you are unsure of something. When in labor, a woman may not be able to make a request or decision. She may be able to use your help if needed. Help her relax by reminding her of techniques learned in childbirth classes. Even if you cannot do anything specific, just being there for her is very important.

Pregnancy is an exciting time. And it can be a bit intimidating, especially for first time moms. If you would like a helpful labor and delivery booklet mailed to your home, call 432-582-8677. Best wishes to you for a healthy pregnancy.