I just had my 37 week checkup yesterday and I am dialated to 2 and effaced 80%. The baby is also at station -2. I know that I can go awhile being dialated and such but I don't know anything about being effaced. I told the girls at my work and they all said that they don't expect to see me next week. I feel like I will be in next week but I don't feel like I will go any longer than another week. I've been having pretty intense contractions on and off and I've been so completly miserable. I've been nauseous and had crazy back pain. Also my muscles and my whole body have been very tense at times. Does anyone have any advice to offer?
it means absolutely nothing, other than to tell you how far you've already come. There's just no telling how long you have until baby is born. It might be another few days, or it might be another five weeks. Most first time mothers gestate for 41 weeks. You know you can refuse vaginal exams if they stress you out, they are totally not necessary.
Yeah, they mean nothing. I was 3 cm dialated (i think) for 4 weeks and 85% effaced for most of that too, and I was 10 days overdue. Don't make too much of all of that, and actually, they shouldn't need to do anymore internals, really.
At 35 weeks, I was 1cm. The next few weeks my dilation slowly changed. So did my effacement. It doesn't really mean anything. Eat something with A1 or FRESH pineapples. Or just do Taco Bell like I did.
Yeah, it's cool to know everything is ready. It could be next fortnight, it could be 5 minutes from now. I walked around effaced at least 90% and several cms dilated for literally months. BUT, it could be soon. Let us know when they are for sure contractions. I'll light a candle and pray meditate for a safe, effective good labor and healthy mama and baby for you. For the muscle pain, (boy, I remember that) a warm deep bath with Epson salts. This stuff really helps. Small, light meals, with carbs, protein, not too much fat, and some complex sugars for the nausea. Try to get comfortable (yeah, sure) easier said than done. Blessings for your prodromal labor. Your body is getting ready. BABY SOON!!!!
