If you think labor might be starting...

[javilu]

what should you do?

Like, if you're having some bearable contractions with some regularity, along with some general cramping, but you're not at all...incapacitated or anything. Take a nap? A bath? Eat dinner?

I have been having a few pretty strong contraction-ish sensations every hour all day, becoming slightly stronger and slightly more frequent. I'm not timing them yet, but they are definitely coming more quickly over time. Anyway, I don't feel like there's a rush about it and I could even imagine it tapering off or stopping, but I feel like I should be doing something. Should I walk? Dance? Rest? Carbo-load? Drink a lot of water?

I want to stay home as long as I can. Everything is ready to go, for when we head to the birth center (about 30 minutes away), but I envision myself chilling at home until the time is right.

I know we talked about this in my class, but I can't remember it now! I feel like they said we should pee often to relieve pressure, but I don't know if I made that up or if that's even relevant...

Maybe just practicing relaxing is in order. Ha.

[amybird]

My doula put it this way "Just keep living your life until you can't anymore. Then you know it's time to go."

Good luck!

[nuwavemomma]

Since it's getting on towards bedtime I would try to sleep for sure! If it's a little too early for you, bake some muffins or some other simple carb and then try to sleep.

[liliaceae]

Yeah I think you should just do what you normally do. Relax, read a book, go for a walk, go to sleep, whatever you feel like doing.

[dearmama22]

very good question, I wonder this same thing!!

I don't think carbo loading is necessary, but that made me laugh!

If it were me, I would probably tidy up a bit ( if I could) so the house would be clean when we got home and then just hang out? Watch tv or go for a walk probably?

I * think* I remember that walking is good...

[L&K'smommie]

Do what you normally would but rest also, because if it is the real thing then you'll need it. A bath is also helpful in seeing if it's the real thing or not, plus it just feels good. Eat and drink as you feel you need to, no need to do anything special. I hope everything goes smoothly if this is it.