An important sign of the onset of labor is contractions. Most girls at the end of pregnancy feel tension in the abdomen, it seems to stiffen, and pulling sensations appear in the lower back, similar to discomfort during menstruation.
There are so-called training contractions, or Braxton Hicks contractions. It is not difficult to distinguish them from the real ones. These contractions are virtually painless. In addition, true contractions are constant, that is, they are repeated after a certain time, which is gradually reduced. At first, the interval between contractions is quite large, their intensity and pain are very moderate. This helps to calmly observe yourself, to notice the regularity of contractions. In false contractions, the interval is always different, they can also increase and decrease depending on the activity and position of the woman’s body. Real contractions will grow regardless of your actions.
What should be done before going directly to the hospital?
As soon as you feel the first contractions and decide that they are real, pack the bag to the hospital (if it is not already ready), then take a shower. Note the intensity and frequency of the contractions along the way, because you need to make sure that this is childbirth, and not precursors. Periodic contractions occurring in 15–20 minutes and lasting 20–30 seconds are a sure sign that it is time to go to the hospital.
The above cannot be attributed to women whose waters have already departed. In this case, there is no time to get ready for a long time – it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance car at home.
Documents to be taken to the hospital
Those who come to the maternity hospital go to the admission department. For registration, you will need the following documents: passport, health insurance policy, exchange card, birth certificate. During the last weeks of pregnancy, it is advisable to carry documents with you at all times, because childbirth may start unexpectedly, and without an exchange card, you may end up in a maternity hospital for unexamined women.
How to get there?
It is better not to use personal transport, call an ambulance, especially if your birth is not the first. There is a possibility that you may not make it on your own, for this case, the ambulance has everything you need to take delivery.
Your mother’s heart will not deceive you. Think about your future baby, tune in for the best, and everything will go great!