How will you know when you are in labor?
Labor is different for every woman. Here are some general rules that may help you know when you are in labor:
- Your uterus will tighten and relax – this is a contraction.
- Contractions may begin in your lower back and move around both sides to your lower abdomen.
- When you notice that you are having regular contractions, start timing them
- When they are coming regularly (every 3 to 5 minutes) or you are unable to walk due to the contraction pain, notify me.
What happens if your bag of water breaks?
When your bag of water breaks, there may be a sudden gush of fluid from your vagina or you may have uncontrollable, continuous leaking. Go directly to labor and delivery.
You may pass your mucus plug up to 1 to 2 weeks before going into labor; this is thick and not watery. Sometimes it is blood tinged. This is OK. It is not necessary to call; however, if there is any question, please contact the office.
When should you go to labor and delivery?
- Regular or painful contractions
- Uncontrollable leakage of fluid or a gush of fluid
- Vaginal bleeding (other than spotting)
- Headache that does not resolve with Tylenol
- Visual changes including “floaters”
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever
- Any other significant concerns
Who and how do you contact me?
If you have an emergency or an urgent question, call my office at 972.566.4555. You should receive a return phone call within 15 minutes. If you do not receive a return phone call, you may leave another message and/or contact Medical City Dallas Labor & Delivery.
If you have a non-urgent message or question, please call the office during normal business hours. Regular office hours are Monday – Thursday from 09:00 am to 4:30 pm and Friday from 09:00 am to 12:00 pm.