Im now at 37 weeks 2 days.

Question

Im now at 37 weeks 2 days. I felt contractions but mild and sometimes very strong. It comes n goes on my back and cramping below my abdominal. Now sure its a braxton hicks or contraction, i have white/yellow discharge sometimes. Not sure also if i dilate yet. This is my 5 pregnancy, 1st & 2nd pregnancy was a normal birth, 3rd & 4th was a twins csection and that was 6 years back, i have totally forget how does it feels like contractions. And doctor said i cant be induce, so should i go to hosp when i have mild contraction or just wait to see whats next?

Sabrina Florentina · Answer

Oh mama, with 5 pregnancies youd think it gets easier to tell, but honestly the body keeps surprising us! The key difference Ive always heard is that real contractions follow a pattern, they get stronger, longer, and closer together over time, while Braxton Hicks tend to stay irregular and ease off when you move around or drink water. Since yours are coming in waves on your back AND causing lower abdominal cramping, that actually sounds more like real labour to me, especially at 37 weeks when youre already considered full term. With your history of C-sections and your doctor saying no induction, I really wouldnt wait around, a friend of mine with a previous C-section was told by her doctor to come in earlier rather than later because the risks are different when theres scar tissue involved. The yellow-white discharge could also mean things are progressing, so honestly just go to the hospital and let them check your dilation, better to go and be sent home than to wait too long. Do check with your own doctor or the hospitals labour ward directly since your situation is quite specific!