Patient's question:
I am now 38 weeks pregnant, experiencing lower abdominal heaviness, the baby half engaged in the pelvis, and symptoms like difficulty urinating, which have persisted for some time. Waking up every day has also become quite difficult. I am quite anxious now, not knowing exactly when I will go into labor. So, I would like to ask, what are the signs of labor? What specific differences will I experience compared to before?Knowing more will help me prepare mentally better and reduce my anxiety.
Doctor's answer:
Lower abdominal heaviness and distension. Pregnant women often feel lower abdominal heaviness and distension, along with frequent urination and lower back pain, due to the fetal presenting part descending and compressing pelvic structures such as the bladder and rectum.Abdominal relief. For first-time mothers, 1–2 weeks before labor, as the fetal presenting part descends into the pelvis and the uterus lowers, the upper abdomen often feels more comfortable than before, breathing becomes easier, and appetite increases.