Hi everyone,

Question particularly for new mums/mums already - last night about 9pm I started getting strong contractions, coming every 2-3 mins (odd I know so quick at start) with really bad back pain, kind of radiating from back to front. Was also getting strong period pains and cramping down top of my legs (like some ppl get on their period). Got all excited thinking this is it...pain got worse till about 1am, contractions pretty regular 2-3 mins with pain and pressure, then somehow I fell asleep for a couple of hours... by time I woke up they had died down a lot, bit of cramping and constant back ache. Started up again about lunch today where they were bad again for a couple of hours, pretty fast and painful, and now they seem to have evened out a bit? Hardening of stomach stopped a little but pain and cramp still there. Has anyone else experienced this? Keep getting excited and then disappointed... if anyone else had this, how long does it go on for/did it mean you were dilating at all??

Thanks for help.

Sarah & 39w blue bump who can't make up his mind!

This is exactly how my labour started, this lasted for 4 days and by the end of it i was pretty fed up! Just when i thought i had got somewhere, they disappeared again!

Try to keep active and walk lots as the pressure on your cervix will help it to dilate, also have some hot baths and maybe sex if you feel up to it?! I know its the last thing on your mind but i tried it and it really sped things up and within a few hours i lost my show.

I know how frustrating it is but your so nearly at the end now! You will have your little boy in your arms before you know it! enjoy the last few days alone!!!

Sending you a big hug and lots of labour dust!

kate & Mia nearly 7 weeks old!

xxx