Patient's question:
Doctor, hello: Recently, my abdomen has been irregularly hardening every few seconds, then relaxing after about twenty seconds. Is this a sign of labor? How long do I have left until delivery?Doctor's answer:
1. Lower abdominal heaviness and distension: Pregnant women often experience lower abdominal heaviness and distension due to the descent of the fetal presenting part compressing pelvic organs such as the bladder and rectum, accompanied by frequent urination and lower back pain.2. Abdominal relief: First-time mothers, about 1–2 weeks before delivery, may feel more comfortable in the upper abdomen as the fetal presenting part descends into the pelvis and the uterus lowers. This often results in easier breathing, increased appetite, and a lighter feeling in the abdomen.
3. False labor contractions: About 1–2 weeks before delivery, irregular uterine contractions may occur. These contractions are short in duration, have long intervals, and are irregular. However, the intensity of these contractions is not strong, causing only mild discomfort in the lower abdomen. The cervix does not dilate with these contractions, and the sensation usually disappears after a while.