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Childbirth/rectal pressure and contractions

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Expert: - 5/20/2009


Question
I'm a little nervous about recognizing when I go into labor. Almost a week ago I was 2cm dilated and 80% effaced, and I have a lot of contractions around my mid section, but they haven't intensified or gotten into a rhythm. Last night I felt a lot of rectal pressure and tightening in my lower back. This morning it had subsided- is this a sign of labor or anything to worry about? Thanks.

Answer
Amanda,

At this point, it sounds like you are experiencing prodromal labor, which is just the processing of your body readying for the birth.


Without knowing how far along you are, I can't tell you if it's a cause for concern, but if you are over 37 weeks, then it's completely normal and a good sign that things are moving in the right direction.


To learn more about prodromal labor and the signs of labor, read http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/prodromal-labor.html and http://www.givingbirthnaturally.com/signs-of-labor.html


So, as long as you are close to term, it sounds like you're getting closer to having your baby, but only the baby knows when it will arrive.



Best,
Catherine

Childbirth

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Catherine Beier MS CBE

Expertise

I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.

Experience

I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.

Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.

Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.

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