How to Tell If You’re Having Contractions at 36 Weeks
When you reach 36 weeks of pregnancy, it’s natural to start wondering if your body is preparing for labor. Contractions are one of the most common signs that your body is getting ready to bring your baby into the world. But how can you tell if the contractions you’re experiencing are real labor contractions or just Braxton Hicks? Here’s a guide to help you differentiate between the two and understand when to call your healthcare provider.
Identifying Real Labor Contractions
Real labor contractions are regular, rhythmic, and gradually become stronger over time. Here are some key signs to look for:
1. Regular Pattern: Real labor contractions occur at regular intervals, typically every 5 to 10 minutes, and then become closer together as labor progresses.
2. Increasing Intensity: Contractions start off mild and gradually become more intense. They may feel like menstrual cramps or strong period pains.
3. Dilation: Real labor contractions are associated with cervical dilation, which is the opening of the cervix. This can be confirmed by a healthcare provider during a pelvic exam.
4. Loss of Mucus Plug: The mucus plug, which seals the cervix during pregnancy, may come away and pass out of the body. This is a sign that the cervix is starting to dilate.
5. Breaking Your Water: The amniotic sac may rupture, causing a gush of fluid to leak from the vagina. This is a significant sign of labor.
Distinguishing from Braxton Hicks Contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and do not lead to cervical dilation. They are more common in the third trimester and can be mistaken for real labor contractions. Here’s how to tell them apart:
1. Irregular Pattern: Braxton Hicks contractions do not follow a regular pattern and can occur at any time, lasting from a few seconds to a few minutes.
2. Mild Intensity: These contractions are usually mild and do not become stronger over time.
3. No cervical dilation: Braxton Hicks contractions do not cause the cervix to dilate or thin out.
4. Not accompanied by other signs of labor: Unlike real labor contractions, Braxton Hicks do not typically lead to other signs of labor, such as loss of mucus plug or amniotic fluid leakage.
When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
If you’re experiencing contractions at 36 weeks, it’s important to know when to contact your healthcare provider. Here are some guidelines:
1. Contractions every 5 to 10 minutes: If you’re having contractions that are 5 to 10 minutes apart and last for about a minute, it’s time to call your healthcare provider.
2. Contractions becoming stronger: If your contractions are getting stronger and more intense, contact your healthcare provider.
3. Loss of mucus plug or amniotic fluid: If you notice a loss of mucus plug or amniotic fluid, call your healthcare provider immediately.
4. Other signs of labor: If you experience any other signs of labor, such as back pain, diarrhea, or a sensation of pressure in the pelvis, contact your healthcare provider.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and it’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s advice. While it’s natural to worry about labor at 36 weeks, most women deliver around 38 to 42 weeks of pregnancy. Trust your body, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when in doubt.
