What are the symptoms 3 days before labor in pregnant women?
I am a 29-year-old primigravida, currently 39 weeks pregnant. Over the past three days, I have experienced a sensation of heaviness in my lower abdomen and occasionally irregular uterine contractions, but I have not experienced bloody show or rupture of membranes. Are these symptoms normal? Could they be signs of impending labor?
Doctor's answer (1)
Three days before delivery, pregnant women may experience a series of physical and physiological changes, including symptoms such as abdominal dropping, decreased fetal movement, uterine contractions, irregular contractions, and slight vaginal bleeding.
1. Abdominal dropping: The fetal head may descend into the pelvis, causing the pregnant woman's abdomen to feel lower and breathing in the upper abdomen to become easier.
2. Decreased fetal movement: As the baby gradually moves into the pelvis or prepares for the birth canal, the pregnant woman may notice reduced fetal activity.
3. Uterine contractions: Uterine contractions before delivery gradually become more frequent and regular, as the body prepares for childbirth. These contractions may feel stronger and last longer.
4. Irregular contractions: Irregular contractions before labor vary in duration and intensity, often being more pronounced at night and relatively weaker during the day.
5. Slight vaginal bleeding: Within 24 to 48 hours before delivery, some pregnant women may experience slight vaginal bleeding, which is caused by the rupture of small blood vessels when the membranes near the cervix separate from the uterine wall.
Pregnant women should maintain a positive and optimistic mindset, follow a balanced diet, engage in appropriate physical activity, attend regular prenatal checkups, and follow their healthcare provider's professional recommendations to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
