Labor Begins

Two days ago I was at Whole Foods doing the weekly shop, and the produce guy said, “Shouldn’t you be at the hospital?” I said, “I wish!” With some luck I may get my wish fairly soon. Yesterday labor began. It started very slowly and lightly, but by 4am the contractions--which feel like tightening and releasing a belt around my hips and lower abdomen--became painful. Now I have to stop talking when I have one, and warm showers and sitting in the rocking chair provide some relief. Right now the contractions are somewhat irregular and about 10 minutes apart.

We saw Dr. Polon this morning for the regular check-up. He said my cervix is about 80% effaced and is dilated 2 centimeters. I was hoping to be dilated more, but I will take it. He said the baby’s head is “right there” and he can feel my water as well. I figured as much since I can barely walk and feel like I have to pee every 5 minutes! He asked me what I wanted to do – labor at home or have him help move things along. I decided to go home. The contractions are uncomfortable but not yet miserable, and I really want the baby to come on its own. He told us to call him when contractions are 5 minutes apart for 30+ minutes. Hopefully that happens today or tonight. Meanwhile, Drew has his timing watch and I'm trying to rest as much as I can.

As for the appointment specifics… the baby’s heart rate is in the 130s, my blood pressure is 100/60, and my weight is down to 28 pounds gained, probably because the swelling is mostly gone now.

Hopefully it won’t be long now!