Expert: Brenda - 10/17/2007

Question
I am 38 weeks.  The baby has not moved today.  My stomach has gotten hard and my back hurts real bad.  Is every thing ok?  Am I in the early stages of labor?  This is my 1st child.

Answer
Dear Caroline,

I would suggest that you do a kick count. Here's how to do a kick count on a daily basis:
1. Choose a time of day that baby is usually active - after a meal is usually a good time.
2. Get a watch.
3. Get a piece of paper and pen or pencil.
4. Sit quietly or lie down on your side.
5. Mark a line for every movement your baby makes within 30 minutes.
6. If your baby moves 10 times before 30 minutes, you're done.
7. If you have fewer than 10 movements in 30 minutes continue.
8. Eat something or drink some orange juice and rest on your left side.
9. If you still do not have 10 movements in the next 30 minutes, call your doctor.

Remember - any movement counts.

If your belly is getting hard, that would be your uterus contracting. The back pain also is probably some labor pain from the contractions. If the contractions do not dissipate when you change your activity (if resting, try walking around or if on feet, try resting), then it sounds like it is true labor and not Braxton-Hicks. Here are some signs of true labor:
-Contractions come regularly, usually 4-6 minutes apart and can become closer together. Usually last 30-70 seconds.
-Contractions become stronger with time. You may also feel vaginal pressure.
-Contractions continue no matter what position changes you make or how much fluid you drink.

Now that you are 38 weeks, don't time contractions until they are very strong and regular. Plan to go to the hospital when they are so strong that you cannot hold a conversation during one, closer than 5-6 minutes apart, and continue in that pattern for over an hour.

I very much hope that you have done ok since leaving the question. This isn't an immediate answer site, so sometimes ladies make me nervous in these types of situations!  :-) I hope this has helped you and answered your questions. I wish you well and a blessed delivery!

Brenda