Stomach/intestinal cramps?

[klg47]

How do you tell the difference between stomach/intestinal cramps and the beginning of labor? This is my 3rd baby (all natural; 2nd homebirth); you'd think I would know by now. But seriously, where exactly are the stomach and intestines located in pregnant moms?

I have been having the feeling of stomach/intestinal cramps (including nausea) for a couple of days, but it seems to be all across the front of my belly. I am supposed to be having a painless childbirth (via Hypnobabies), so I refuse to believe that this could be pressure waves (contractions)

[Momsteader]

Is your uterus 'hardening'? If not, it might be some prelabor 'clearing out' of the intestines.

[mom22girls]

Originally Posted by CrunchyClark

Is your uterus 'hardening'? If not, it might be some prelabor 'clearing out' of the intestines.

Cleaning out is what came to mind when I saw the title of the post. Have you had lots of, er, "output?'

[klg47]

That's what I was thinking too, but I haven't had more than usual 'output'!

[PiePie]

warning -- contains discussion of POOP!!

it could be what i am having -- good old fashioned constipation. the intestines are not where they are in non-pregnant persons; they are all squished up and it is hard for stuff to pass through as usual. stuff builds up and hardens and the intestines have to contract to move things along. the pains are short and sharp and move in a circle, unlike real contractions, i guess. at least that was the mw's diagnosis.