From the middle of the third trimester, a woman begins to experience tension, which increases every day. The less time is left before the meeting with the baby, the shorter the night's sleep becomes and the stronger the excitement. The state before childbirth changes due to physiological factors and depends on psychological readiness. A thorough study of the symptoms will allow the pregnant woman to seek medical attention in time and avoid complications.

The prenatal state of a woman before childbirth changes 10-14 days before the event. 70% note a change in the psychological state (excitement, anxiety) and appearance (posture, abdominal position). Other patients feel the harbingers only before the contractions, when the cervix begins to open.

After what time the labor begins, depends on the woman's behavior at the first precursors. Stimulation, in the form of active walking, massage, impact on the nipples, will bring the onset of contractions closer. But the norm for each case is individual.

The optimal period for resolving pregnancy is from 37 to 42 weeks. Babies born before this time are considered premature, later - overripe. 75% of births occur between 39 and 41 weeks. It has been noticed that boys are formed and are born earlier than girls.

Some babies, slowly developing in the second trimester, gain additional weight up to 1.5 kg in the last month before childbirth. Mom feels that her stomach has grown a lot, it has become more difficult.

The norm of obstetric pregnancy is 40 weeks. When calculating the PDR, the gynecologist focuses on this figure. But only 5% of babies are born according to the preliminary calculations of the doctor. The average error is 10-14 days.

Influencing factors:

1. menstrual cycle;
2. heredity;
3. during pregnancy.

A frequently used method for determining the PDD, when registering, is focusing on the menstrual cycle. On the Internet, it is easy and quick to independently calculate the time frame using special calculators.

How do you know when the labor will start in how many days? Given the known date of conception (N), the formula is used: N + 266 days = day of delivery. If ovulation (O) was tracked, the number is calculated: O +268 days. Or 280 days are added to the first day of menstruation.

In 7 out of 10 patients, the week of childbirth coincides with the periods of pregnancy resolution in the mother, grandmother. There are also overlaps in infant height and weight.

The course of pregnancy affects maturity, fetal behavior and the course of events in the future. Polyhydramnios, abnormal placenta previa, large fetus and chronic diseases can bring the date of delivery closer. For patients with a difficult pregnancy, excessive nervousness before childbirth is a factor that provokes the threat of miscarriage.

The physical state

More than half of women, even without PDD, feel an early meeting with a baby in advance. The well-being of a pregnant woman before childbirth is determined by hormonal changes, changes in the structure and behavior of tissues, which are expressed by specific symptoms.

Signs:

• braxtones;
• decrease in body weight;
• excretion of colostrum;
• prolapse of the abdomen;
• change in gait;
• frequent urination;
• defecation (upset stool);
• fetal movement;
• discharge.

Braxtons. From week 36 onwards, training contractions are normal. By the end of pregnancy, the body is dominated by the hormone estrogen, which softens the tissues of the uterus. Due to changes in the fibers, the walls stretch, pushing the fetus down, then relax. False contractions are painless and irregular.

Body mass. The weight of a pregnant woman is reduced by several kilograms 2 weeks before delivery. Edema goes away, as the concentration of progesterone, which retains fluid, decreases in the body. Due to hormonal changes and excitement, appetite disappears.

Colostrum. From the beginning of the third trimester, some pregnant women observe discharge from the areoles, in the form of a transparent white liquid. Appears more often with pressure, by the time of the onset of delivery, the color changes to white. Stimulating the nipples, with the appearance of colostrum, will increase lactation in the future.

Belly and gait. As the fetus moves towards the exit from the uterus, the center of gravity also changes. The spine has to bend backward to support the weight, so the gait becomes "goose bumps".

Toilet calls. Frequent urination before childbirth is due to the pressure of the grown uterus on the bladder. Sometimes a woman urinates involuntarily without noticing it. Traces are found only on the gasket.

Estrogen, which softens the fibers of the uterus, also affects the intestinal wall. The pressure of the fetus makes you want to go to the toilet in large quantities, diarrhea begins, 3-4 times a day. The contraction of the weak (due to estrogen) walls of the organ also provokes gases in the intestines before childbirth.

Stirring. 7-10 days before delivery, fetal movements subside. The baby seems to freeze, accumulates energy to move along the birth canal. Due to the space and size of the fetus limited by the fetal bladder, the child is constrained in movements, but 1-2 times a day the woman feels a confident strong push.

Allocations. If mucus with a yellow tint appears on the gasket, the neck begins to open, the cervical plug comes off. Discharge of blood is abnormal, green, yellow, with an unpleasant odor, in the form of cottage cheese. In such a situation, hospitalization is required, due to the risk of infection of the fetus.

Weakness and malaise before childbirth usually goes away 3-4 days before the onset of labor. The woman feels a surge of energy, lightness, the feeling of heaviness in the abdomen disappears. Therefore, if there is no strength before childbirth, the wait seems prolonged, there are signs of depression, then there is at least a week before delivery. You need to be in the fresh air more often, to be distracted by knitting, reading detective stories.

Psychological condition

Against the background of hormonal changes, frequent changes and mood swings before childbirth are normal. But to exclude the development of phobias, psychological preparation is recommended from a period of 18-20 weeks.

What happens to a woman before childbirth:

1. nesting syndrome;
2. change of mood;
3. fear.

Nesting Syndrome. This psychological sign of childbirth is explained by excitement, the mother is agitated, the hormonal background is being rebuilt. Most of the time is occupied by worries about the arrangement of the home for the baby - the purchase of bed linen, sterilizers, hygiene items.

The woman changes the curtains, she wants the prevalence of bed tones, the smell of cleanliness, etc. The agitated psychological state of a woman before childbirth provokes behavior similar to the arrangement of a nest with a wild bird.

Changeable emotions. The main reason for the bad mood before childbirth and its swings is the high concentration of the female hormone. The maximum content is noted by the middle of the third trimester. Estrogen provokes tearfulness before childbirth, weakness, pity for yourself and others. But as soon as a woman looks at herself from a comfortable angle, another female reaction turns on - narcissism, satisfaction, joy.

In both situations, estrogen enhances the brightness of emotion, which causes tears to appear, or vice versa, prolonged laughter, turning into hysteria. Mood swings and apathy before childbirth go away one week before the start of labor.

Fears. In 65% of cases, poor health before childbirth is caused by accumulated fear. The main reasons are the fear of pain, complications, death of the baby, disconnection from society. Often, anxiety before childbirth is caused by the fear of losing external attractiveness, being in demand from others. Such manifestations, without the intervention of a psychologist, develop into phobias, and entail severe depression.

To prevent hormonal changes from developing into depressive disorders, the pregnant woman is advised to walk more, consume joy carbohydrates (bananas, oatmeal, dark chocolate), do swimming, yoga and refuse forums. It is better to spend time preparing for each of the stages of delivery.

When to contact the hospital

A quick birth is considered to last from 1.5 hours. This amount of time is recommended by obstetricians to be guided by when going to the hospital, especially if the pregnancy is repeated.

What condition is observed in a pregnant woman before childbirth in a few hours:

• training fights;
• the cork will come off - a clot of mucus;
• there will be aching pains in the lower abdomen and lower back;
• the uterus will begin to contract, the true contraction increases from 10 seconds to 1-1.5 minutes;
• amniotic fluid is released by a stream.

In half of the cases, after false contractions, labor begins in 4-6 hours. In other situations, the break between the "braxtons" and the opening of the cervix lasts up to 2-3 weeks. During this time, you should prepare for each of the stages.

Things to do before giving birth:

1. breathing exercises;
2. Kegel exercises;
3. yoga classes, swimming;
4. stretching gymnastics.

Breathing techniques and exercises for the muscles of the vagina will help you to endure contractions more easily. In pushing, elastic muscles, plus proper behavior, will reduce the risk of rupture to a minimum. Need yoga classes before childbirth for psychological relief, training self-control, control over emotions. Blood circulation improves, oxygen supply to organs, mood rises.

There are proven signs by which an early meeting with a baby is determined. When one symptom appears, it is not recommended to further stimulate the process, everything should proceed naturally. Walking before childbirth brings the onset of labor closer, but this method is excluded for women in labor at risk of premature birth. Calmness and discretion are the key to a successful resolution of pregnancy.

Before giving birth, women experience a whole range of indescribable feelings: among them insomnia, fear, impatience. They also feel some physiological changes, such as abdominal prolapse, discharge of the mucous plug and slight weight loss. Let's take a closer look at what is happening to the expectant mother in the last weeks, what she needs to be prepared for, and we will give some recommendations.

How to get rid of anxiety and sleep well

Fear of childbirth arises in all women in labor, even those who go through this process not for the first time. The fear of pain, that something will happen to you or the baby, poisons the pleasant expectation of the baby's birth. What can you advise? Rather, switch to something else, interesting. Have you wanted to watch a TV show for a long time? Right now! Stock up on DVDs and plunge into the experiences of the characters, so you get distracted from your own. Don't want to watch TV? Then buy books. And don't forget about walking. It is not worth spending the whole day at home. Kid, and you yourself need an influx of fresh air saturated with oxygen. For a mother, this is also a plus because fresh air and small physical activity ensure a calm deep sleep before childbirth.

By the way, about the night's rest. Insomnia often worries expectant mothers in the last weeks. Too frequent and strong movements of the child, plus a huge belly, with which it is not easy to take a comfortable position, are forced to think about sleeping pills. But their mothers-to-be shouldn't drink. And valerian, which is so often prescribed by doctors, provides more of a placebo effect. But if you believe in the effectiveness of this herb, then you can safely drink it, it is not harmful.

But it would be much better to take care of your sleep differently. Before giving birth, the baby calms down, as there is too little space in the uterus, which means that you will be able to fall asleep much easier and sleep longer. You need to find a comfortable position. Doctors recommend sleeping on a medium firm mattress on the left side. Pillows can be placed between the legs and on the right side. It is very important to maintain a comfortable temperature and humidity in the room where you sleep. Remember to regularly ventilate the room, and always before bed. Do not drink a lot before going to bed, otherwise you will have to get up to the toilet several times at night; in expectant mothers, urination during long periods of pregnancy is quite frequent.

Before going to bed, do not watch TV, so as not to gain impressions for the night. This is especially true of heavy films - dramas, horrors, thrillers, etc. Gynecologists recommend watching only comedies that evoke positive emotions before childbirth.

Shortly before the start of labor, and sometimes even a few hours before the contractions, the expectant mother sneaks into a general cleaning, the "nesting instinct" is triggered. Just do not overwork too much, do not lift weights, otherwise placental abruption may begin, or the amniotic fluid will move away.

Physiological changes

In the body of the expectant mother, changes begin to occur 1-3 weeks before childbirth. Preparations for the birth of a child are in full swing. So, what the expectant mother can feel and notice.

1. Contractions before childbirth, the so-called preparatory. They do not lead to cervical dilatation, last a few seconds, are not regular and painless. No need to be afraid of them and just go to the doctor or call an ambulance. It is quite another matter if these contractions are accompanied by bloody discharge from the vagina or discharge of amniotic fluid - then urgently see a doctor.

Before childbirth, the stomach and lower back ache, the contractions are regular, their strength is growing. Painful sensations cannot be removed by non-drug methods. Here's what you need to know about starting labor.

2. The cervix also begins to prepare in advance to release the baby from the uterus. This is especially noticeable in multiparous, in which the opening of 1-2 fingers can occur even 2 weeks before the hour of X. Usually, at the same time as this small opening, the cork leaves before childbirth. This is such a rather noticeable, voluminous lump of mucus with bloody streaks. These veins appear due to the fact that small vessels burst in the cervix as a result of its opening. It should be noted that the cork can come off even during contractions. Some expectant mothers do not even notice her, especially if they have to lie under a dropper during contractions.

3. And another common phenomenon is weight loss before childbirth. Usually, expectant mothers lose up to 1 kilogram. This physiological weight loss is associated with ridding the body of excess fluid. You may notice that the swelling becomes less or disappears. Elastic bands of socks no longer leave marks after prolonged wear, and the wedding ring can be easily removed from the finger at the end of the day.

4. The abdomen drops. All 9 months, your uterus has been growing up and has already begun to support the ribs quite strongly, which made it impossible to sit for exactly more than a few minutes, breathe calmly. Heartburn is common. But shortly before childbirth, the presenting part of the fetus (most often the head) moves deeper into the pelvis, respectively, and the uterus drops slightly. The relatives of the expectant mother will easily notice these changes in her abdominal shape, and the woman herself will feel that it has become easier to breathe. Life is getting better! The gynecologist determines that the child has sunk deeper into the pelvis by palpating the presenting part. In the case of the head, it practically loses its mobility.

Prenatal medical procedures

Unfortunately, it is hardly possible to do without them. But take them as a necessity that will make the process of your child's birth more enjoyable and civilized, so to speak. What are these procedures?

1. Shave before childbirth - you must get rid of the hair in the pubic and perineal areas. Of course, it is better to do it yourself, although it is not always convenient due to the large size of the abdomen. As a last resort, honey can also do this cosmetic procedure. sister upon your admission to the hospital. If you are shy, then take care of shaving in advance. By the way, it doesn't have to be just shaving. Many women get rid of hair in the bikini area with wax - the procedure is performed in the salon quickly and inexpensively. The main thing is to monitor sterility. But if you have never tried waxing before, this is not your choice. Since the painful sensations for the first time, until the skin gets used to this procedure, are quite pronounced.

2. Another not very pleasant, but not painful procedure is an enema before childbirth. Although they say that women are not “bullied” anywhere else abroad, but believe me, it is not only honey that is needed. to the staff, but also to you. In the second stage of childbirth, when attempts begin, and in the process of the child's passage through the birth canal, all the contents of your intestines will come out ... An enema before childbirth can be done at home, or you can entrust this very simple procedure to honey. sister in the hospital. Some women who have already gone through childbirth recommend that their pregnant girlfriends use glycerin-containing preparations instead of the "classic" enema. The most famous of them are microlax microclysters and glycerin suppositories. But at present, unfortunately, they are not on sale in Russia and it is not known when they will be. And the intestines cannot be cleaned well with glycerin alone.

Here are the basic things to know before giving birth. Good luck!

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Among the many questions about childbirth, pregnant women least of all ask the question of what causes the onset of labor. Many treat this naturally: the time has just come - the child is ripe, like an apple ripens on a tree, and it's time for you to become a mother.

Throughout the entire period of pregnancy, natural changes took place in the body: the child grew and developed, the uterus increased, all internal organs, heart and kidneys worked with a vengeance. All you had to do was keep your body healthy. Likewise, during childbirth - everything happens by itself. You only need to help your body to cope with this task, and your child - to be born.

Recently, experts have been of the opinion that the initiator of the onset of labor is the child, but most likely it is a combination of signals from the body of the mother, child and placenta.
Over the past months, the child has grown, and there is little room for him in his mother's tummy. The amount of amniotic fluid decreased, the placenta began to age, the child began to receive less nutrients and oxygen. These circumstances cause stress in the child, and therefore his body begins to produce the stress hormone - cortisol. At this time, the amount of estrogens, hormones that prepare the uterus for childbirth, increases in the mother's body. Under their influence, the cervix shortens and softens, and the contractions of the uterus become more and more regular.

The onset of labor is not always clear and definite, especially if a woman is giving birth for the first time. But even women giving birth to their second or third child cannot always determine with certainty the exact onset of labor. Therefore, getting closer and closer to the expected date of birth, with the appearance of some new sensations, a pregnant woman asks the question: is this childbirth or not? How to distinguish the actual onset of labor from the usual precursors, or, as doctors say, false contractions?

Changes in the mother's body - a few days before delivery:

At the very end of pregnancy, changes occur in the body, preparing the female body for the upcoming event.
Some changes are more noticeable, others less.

Diarrhea (loose stools once). A few days before childbirth, a substance is actively produced in the body that stimulates uterine contractions at the beginning of labor. This substance - prostaglandin - triggers the mechanism of stimulating smooth masculature, including the intestines. This is often the cause of loose stools.

Discharge of the mucous plug. This lump of dense mucus forms early in pregnancy. The function of the plug is to protect the unborn child from infection during the entire period. In preparation for childbirth, the cervix softens, begins to expand, and mucus comes out. Often this lump is stained with blood and is brownish or brownish in color. Many women are afraid that due to inexperience they will not notice the cork coming off.
Indeed, this process sometimes goes unnoticed, especially if a woman follows a very calm lifestyle. If you do not notice it moving away, you should not worry about this. In this case, you should focus on the contractions and their duration.

Increased number of Braxton Hicks contractions. Doctors call these contractions false, or harbingers. However, these are real contractions, only they do not speak about the beginning of labor, but about preparation for it. Such contractions are manifested by pulling, sometimes spasmodic pains in the lower abdomen. But unlike labor pains, the pain does not intensify, and the pains pass when the woman changes her body position, starts walking, or takes a warm bath. These contractions are irregular, their frequency does not increase, and they are felt only in the lower abdomen.

All these signs indicate that soon you will go to the hospital. Plan your days before childbirth in such a way that you will not be away long and far from home. During this period, it is best to make the final preparations for sending to the hospital: collect things and the necessary documents. Likewise, you can do some hygiene beforehand, such as shaving your pubic hair. Sometimes this intimate procedure is much more pleasant to do at home on your own or with the help of your husband.

If you feel the need for a lighter menu, you can switch to dietary food, giving up flour products and meat, replacing it with fish, consume more fiber, so that prenatal cleansing procedures in the body are easier to go through.

Some women feel energized during this period. But it's not the best option to start a general cleaning right now. In the last days or days before childbirth, try to sleep more in order to gain strength and energy for a future event. You can go for a walk in the nearest park. If you feel contractions, take a bath for 15-20 minutes to relax the muscles of the uterus and the whole body, and at the same time check if labor begins. If the contractions have stopped, it means that these are just precursors. The last days can be really tinged with anxiety and painful anticipation, but these are not your best companions. Be calm and patient, because no one in the world has remained pregnant for life. So please be patient - everything goes on as usual.

The interval between preparation and onset of labor:

Contractions are difficult to distinguish at first, like pinching or pain during menstruation. Listen to your feelings. Often, due to the onset of contractions of the uterus, a woman more often and stronger than usual, there is a desire to empty the bladder. If these are really prenatal contractions, then after a while they will become more frequent, more regular and rhythmic, and their duration and soreness will intensify. Some women in labor think that contractions are like waves that originate in the middle of the back, run into the hips and connect in the abdomen. Many have the feeling that a tight belt is wrapped around the abdomen, which loosens a little when the contraction passes.

At the beginning of labor pains, in no case should you take painkillers and self-medicate. If the sensations are really painful, it is better to relax as much as possible and even more so not to panic. It should be noted that during contractions, the pain dulls if you start to actively move. Therefore, at such moments it is better not to take a horizontal position, not to lie on the bed. Walk around the apartment, and if your husband or girlfriend is next to you, you can even walk a little down the street. And all this time, mark the duration of the contraction on the watch with a second hand. If the rhythm of the contractions is not "miscalculated", take a warm bath or shower. After them, the contractions usually become more rhythmic.

In past centuries in Russia, in order to facilitate and accelerate childbirth, a woman in labor was prescribed to step over various objects: a rocker, a shovel, a poker, her husband's pants, through her husband himself, through a bag, etc. with a bundle of salt. If the village was too large, the woman walked around the house.

If your contractions start in the middle of the night, try to sleep. During sleep, the cervix continues to open gradually. Sitting on your back usually slows down the progress of labor, so sit on your side and roll from one side to the other every hour. If you can't sleep, don't lie in bed; instead, do something easy. Make sandwiches for your husband, check if everything is ready to go to the hospital. Most importantly, do everything calmly, without much zeal and fuss, take your time, breathe deeply and evenly, slightly slowing down the pace during the fight.

If you are certain that labor is beginning, you can have a light snack. Avoid rich, fatty and heavy foods. Now you need products that will give strength and energy. This can be broth, croutons, fruit juice, nuts, or dried fruit. Meat, milk and any fatty foods are not recommended - heavy food will only increase the burden on the body during the onset of childbirth. In addition, if anesthesia is unexpectedly needed, a full stomach will create complications. And light food will give you strength and a little relaxation.

Before going to the hospital:

If you have an outpouring of amniotic fluid, immediately go to the hospital without waiting for the onset of contractions. The outpouring of water is a natural process, indicating the onset of labor.

It is also time to go to the hospital if you observe the following signs:
contractions have become regular and appear every 5-10 minutes, that is, 12-15 contractions occur per hour;
each contraction lasts about a minute;
contractions do not go away when you change position;
it is no longer possible to ignore the contractions - you feel that the pain has spread to the lower back and hips.

Along with these sensations, you may feel the need to go to some quiet secluded place. It was not without reason that it was previously believed that a woman in labor is, as it were, between two worlds. This is due to the fact that a woman's self-awareness during childbirth changes intensively - she really plunges into a special state of consciousness. A woman's feelings are concentrated on what is happening to her, and she seems to go inside herself.

Before leaving home, try to take a shower, put a sanitary napkin in your panties, trim your nails, and rinse the nail polish and makeup off your face. If you do not want to do an enema in the hospital (if it is required in this institution), do it yourself before leaving. Just remember and be prepared for the fact that uterine spasms may intensify, and labor, thus, accelerates. At the hospital, you will be asked to remove all jewelry: rings, earrings, etc., so it is better to leave them at home right away.

When calling the car, take into account the time of day (day or night) and the distance to the maternity hospital. Do not drive yourself. Decide in advance who will be lucky and plan your route to the hospital. In the car, take a reclining position, making yourself as comfortable as possible. For convenience, take a couple of small pillows with you, and put an oilcloth on the seat in case of amniotic fluid discharge. Go to the hospital calmly, take a pre-prepared bag with you. If in the hospital it turns out that you have forgotten something, do not worry: your family will bring everything you need a little later.

Also remember that the first birth is usually slower, and the subsequent birth is a little faster, and for some women, everything happens at all rapidly. Consider these features when you plan your departure to the hospital.

What to do when you arrive at the hospital?

Most women do not know how they will be greeted at the hospital - friendly or dry, indifferent or joyful. Therefore, do not think about how you will be received in terms of cordiality or hospitality. Everywhere they meet in different ways, and the mood of a particular midwife or nurse depends on the character of the person or on some circumstances. It doesn't matter at all to you.

At the front desk, you need to change into a bathrobe and slippers. You can bring everything with you, if the conditions of the maternity hospital allow it, but in some institutions it is customary to give birth exclusively in "government" underwear. While you are changing your clothes, the nurse will record all your details. To do this, you will be asked for documents: a passport, an insurance policy and an exchange card (generic certificate). You should be weighed, measured the growth and volume of the outer dimensions of the pelvis, examined the skin for the presence of infectious and fungal diseases, and also measured the temperature and examined the throat.

If all goes well, you can give birth in the healthy women ward. In the event that you arrived at the hospital by ambulance and you do not have a preliminary agreement with a specific doctor, you will have a conversation with the doctor on duty. He will get acquainted with your exchange card, find out how the pregnancy went, whether you were sick with anything during this period, whether there were any complications. Be sure to tell your doctor or midwife about when the contractions started, how often they recur, whether the water left, when the last time you ate and what kind of food.

The doctor will then do an internal vaginal examination to find out the dilatation and condition of the cervix and to see if labor has actually begun. Also, the doctor will determine the height of the child's head and its position, find out the strength of the contractions, listen to the child's heartbeat. An examination is also necessary in order to preliminarily understand how the childbirth will proceed.

During the conversation, a good, experienced doctor will definitely tell you how the birth is going so that you are not afraid or nervous; will tell you how to behave correctly. If for some reason the doctor does not start this conversation with you, do not hesitate - ask him about it yourself. You can also ask your midwife for this information and advice.

After the examination, the doctor will draw up a plan for the management of labor. Ask for details of this plan; find out what you do not understand, as well as the need for certain procedures; express your wishes, which, if possible, should be taken into account. Now the most important thing for you is the health and safety of you and your child. If labor is normal and labor is not rapid, the doctor will perform an examination and vaginal examination only from time to time.

How to behave in the hospital - courtesy rules?

Regardless of whether you deliberately chose this hospital or came here by accident, accept the rules and traditions of the hospital. All months of pregnancy, what was happening inside you, you perceived as a miracle - a miracle of the birth and development of a new person. And now, when this miracle is about to appear, you do perceive yourself, if not the center of the universe, then at least the unofficial navel of the earth. And you think that everyone around and the staff in the hospital should treat you the same way and greet you accordingly. Although your expectations are quite fair and reasonable, the real situation is often different.

The attitude towards a woman in labor is indifferent and even cool. As a result, the woman gets upset, nervous, it is already hard for her to relax and tune in to the right wave in order to fully prepare for childbirth. Therefore, in advance, do not put yourself in dependence on someone else's mood, do not interrupt your mood for childbirth. And instead of being isolated or offended, it is better to try to forge warm, friendly relations with the people who will be with you during labor. After all, these people also expect a kind and friendly attitude from their patients.

And although you are now really in a special position, this does not exempt you from tactful behavior:
Be courteous to nursing staff and other women in labor.
In a conversation with a doctor, stick to the golden mean - talk about the main thing. Don't be too wordy when describing your pregnancy, but don't forget to include important points.
Do not argue or argue with your doctor. If you have any fundamental wishes regarding your childbirth, express them and try to calmly come to an optimal solution. But it is better to resolve this issue in advance - to discuss all the points of interest with the doctor and include them in the contract.
Do not be silent if something bothers you. Such false modesty is fraught with complications during childbirth, for which the doctor will hardly be grateful to you.

You may ask how certain rules can be changed, but you have no right to dictate them. Therefore, in order not to become a victim of conditions that you do not like, the best thing you can do is to find out all the information that interests you in advance.

Hygiene procedures before childbirth in the hospital:

Until recently, in all maternity hospitals, women were given an enema and shaved their pubis before giving birth. Why are these procedures carried out and what is the attitude towards them now? The enema was thought to reduce the risk of contamination during childbirth due to involuntary bowel movements, reducing the stress that the baby's head stumbles upon as it passes through the birth canal.

Now there is no such categorical opinion on this matter anymore: in some maternity hospitals they continue to use an enema as a mandatory procedure, in others this practice has been abandoned. If during the day before childbirth the woman had normal bowel movements, and during internal examination no solid feces are felt, there is no danger of blockage of the birth canal.

And yet there are arguments for this procedure. First, during childbirth, involuntary bowel movements can occur. Although the sterile pads discarded with feces will protect the newborn from contamination, it will add an unpleasant moment to the birth process.

If the enema is given on the eve of the birth, you will most likely be spared this event, which disrupts the general atmosphere of labor. If you do not want to do an enema in the hospital, carry out this procedure shortly before leaving for the hospital.

Secondly, when an enema is given at the beginning of labor, it further stimulates the contraction of the uterus, which increases the overall tone of labor.

Another prenatal procedure is controversial in many women - shaving pubic and perineal hair. The hair in this area was thought to collect various bacteria that could infect a baby during childbirth. Now, many doctors find these fears exaggerated and do not always insist on shaving. Therefore, instead of shaving, the perineal area is washed with a special bacteriological liquid to prevent and reduce the risk of infection.

On the other hand, there are also arguments for this procedure. Firstly, after childbirth, doctors examine the woman's perineum to make sure it is intact, there are no ruptures, including in the cervical region. This is easier to do when the perineum is free of hair. Secondly, if there is a need to sew up gaps, even the smallest ones, this should be done on a clean surface of the skin - this is the golden medical rule.

Therefore, if the doctors in your hospital recommend a shaving procedure, listen to them and try to make their work easier on your part. You can remove the hair in the crotch and anus, leaving it in the pubic area. Find out in advance information regarding these procedures at the hospital and agree on the option that suits you.

New sensations in the body during pregnancy are natural and normal. It is important to figure out in time whether the sensation that has appeared is a symptom of a pathological condition, such as the threat of termination of pregnancy, or is it a natural sign of the development of pregnancy itself.
Such signs at the end of the third trimester of pregnancy are the so-called precursors of childbirth - markers, the readiness of the woman's body for childbirth. Listen to the word "harbingers". What is its meaning? These are heralds, foreshadowing any upcoming important event, preceding it. Harbingers appear several days before the onset of childbirth, when the pregnancy is considered full-term, and the baby is fully matured and ready for extrauterine existence, i.e. after the 37th week of pregnancy.
The baby's lungs are already developed so much that he can breathe atmospheric air. special cells of his lungs begin to produce biologically active substances - this is a signal for the mother's body. In the parent "control center" a planned redeployment takes place, an exit directive is given. The expectant mother experiences syndromes that are very similar to those of birth.
However, harbingers are recognized for more than just alerting. Each harbinger arises in connection with changes in the body of a pregnant woman. Moreover, the change is characterized by the suddenness of the occurrence, spasmodic, sharpness, therefore it attracts the attention of a woman.

The main signs of precursors of childbirth

1. The earliest harbinger is the abdominal prolapse of a pregnant woman.

What does it look like? About 2-3 weeks before giving birth, you will find that your belly has dropped. Often it happens suddenly, somehow suddenly. Still, the height of the bottom of the uterus, which increases weekly by 1 cm and by the 37th week is about 37-40 cm (if the baby is alone in the uterus), suddenly decreases by 2-3 cm in a few hours.
Of course, this does not go unnoticed: breathing becomes easier, the shape of the abdomen changes - it becomes flat, sloping from above. In the words of one of the pregnant women, first, when the belly is high, "at least put a cup and saucer and drink tea." And at the moment of realization of the precursor, which we called "abdominal ptosis", the uterus becomes lower at once by 2-3 cm. You cannot put a cup and saucer on. The palm now fits easily between the chest and abdomen. Why is this happening? The lower segment of the uterus becomes softer and stretches before delivery. The child descends, pressing the head tightly against the bone rim of the small pelvis, and the abdomen becomes lower.

Signs of a harbinger:
the appearance of pulling sensations in the lower abdomen. Shooting pains in the perineum and legs may appear, because with all its weight the child presses on the muscles, ligaments and nerves.
relief of breathing (the pregnant uterus no longer puts so much pressure on the lungs)
decreased motor activity of the baby.
It is likely that the child's decreased physical activity can puzzle or scare you. The child is pressed against the bone ring of the small pelvis with his head, as a result of which he stops turning and can only move his arms and legs. So the decrease in perturbations is quite understandable and normal.
And the purpose of the harbinger is clear: fixing the head prevents the baby from turning over and makes it easier to start the birthing process. The birth canal for the child is already covered by three centimeters! And only ten will remain in labor.
In the case of the pelvic position, the lowering of the presenting part does not occur. Due to its large size and softness, the baby's bottom cannot be inserted into the bone ring of the mother's pelvis.

2. Mucous plug

An equally important criterion of the body's readiness for childbirth is the release of the mucous plug from the genital tract. During pregnancy, thick cervical mucus in the form of a plug prevented harmful microorganisms from entering the uterus, and by the time of delivery it liquefies and flows out of the genital tract.
The dilution of mucus is facilitated by estrogens, the level of which rises before childbirth. This happens 3-5 days before delivery. You will find on the strip a mucous-watery discharge of beige or brown color, sometimes streaked with blood, in the amount of 1-2 tablespoons. This usually happens in the morning, at the same time, the next morning, the discharge can be repeated. At this stage, the question may arise: is it not amniotic fluid?

After all, both those and other secretions are liquid, and at the first observation they seem to be similar. (By the way, water is normally poured out at the end of the 1st stage of labor, and prenatal effusion is rare.) Compare:

Departure time:

cork - 3-5 days before delivery
water - At the end of the 1st stage of labor, sometimes before labor or at the beginning

Colour:
cork - Mucous beige, brown, may be streaked with blood
water - Transparent, can be light pink, light green

Consistency:
cork - Liquid, slimy
water - Watery

Periodicity:
cork - in portions of 1-2 tablespoons, several days in a row
water - Constant leakage, positive symptom of "cough push"

What to do:
cork - Observe
water - Go to the hospital

The water, unlike the mucous plug, is transparent, warm and constantly leaking. A simple cough can be used as a diagnostic criterion. When the abdominal wall is strained, the water will flow more strongly, and the amount of mucous plug will not change.

3. Changes in the state of health and mood of the pregnant woman

The next harbinger that occurs a few days before childbirth is a change in the well-being and mood of the pregnant woman. Emotional uplift, sudden euphoria, unreasonable sadness, tearfulness can be observed. For the third trimester, childbirth and the postpartum period, they are most characteristic. Sometimes these feelings quickly replace each other during the day. Sweating, hot flashes to the head, slight dizziness, chills may occur. These manifestations are associated with pronounced hormonal changes before childbirth.
4. Protrusion of the navel

The protrusion of the navel may appear in the third trimester of pregnancy (before the 37th week) and is probably associated with a general softening of the connective tissues of the body and an increase in pressure in the abdominal cavity, as well as with overstretching of the anterior abdominal wall and abdominal skin.
5. "Duck walk"

The center of gravity shifts, and the woman, when walking, compensatory tilts her shoulders back. When a pregnant woman walks, she puts her legs not in one line, as it was before pregnancy, but slightly apart, thereby increasing the area of ​​support. This is important in order to better contain the increased volumes. There is nothing wrong with that, this is a typical gait of a woman before childbirth. if this is the first pregnancy, then the woman will walk like this for 2-4 weeks. During subsequent pregnancies, the belly sinks literally on the eve of childbirth.

6. Weight loss

2-3 days before giving birth, a woman may lose a little weight (1-2 kg). How can body weight change so quickly? Of course, by freeing the body from excess fluid in the form of urine. The usefulness (physiological) of this precursor lies in the fact that as a result of a decrease in the liquid component of the blood (recall that urine is formed from blood), the blood thickens, its coagulability increases, which helps to reduce blood loss during childbirth. In addition, that additional volume of fluid that was previously used to produce amniotic fluid, increasing the volume of blood circulating in the body of the mother and child, is no longer needed - and the excess water is excreted from the body. Sometimes this period is characterized not only by frequent urination, but also by diarrhea. The intestines also need to be cleaned before childbirth.
Perhaps the most significant and tangible precursors of labor are precursor contractions and cervical maturity.

7. Harbinger bouts

Harbinger contractions are irregular contractions of the uterus that appear several days before childbirth, usually in the evenings. Women often call them trial fights, which makes sense. The purpose of prevestikal contractions is to prepare the birth canal, and specifically, to promote the maturation of the cervix - its shortening and expansion.

Harbinger contractions are well felt. How do you recognize them?

To begin with, let's figure out what a contraction is and whether there is a fundamental difference between precursor, labor pains, normal contractile activity and increased uterine tone.
The mechanism of occurrence of all the listed conditions is the same.
This is an increase in the contractility of the uterus, the tension of its muscle layer. And since the uterus is a completely muscular organ (plus the mucous membrane from the inside and the connective tissue base of the peritoneum on the outer surface), we say that a contraction is a contraction of the uterus, meaning by this its muscle. At the same time, the uterus for some time (usually up to a minute) becomes dense, tense, well-contoured, there is a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen and in the sacrum.

The differences are as follows:

Normal contractions in a contraction (doctors call it Braxton Hicks contractions) are natural, short and painless contractions of the uterus, usually noticeable after the 24th week of pregnancy. They appear 4-6 times a day and are considered a normal manifestation of the contractile activity of the uterus, which demonstrates its ability to exert itself, reminds of itself. In addition, at the time of a change in tone, blood circulation improves, which allows you to deliver more nutrients to the child.
We are talking about an increased tone of the uterus with frequent and prolonged tensions of the uterus, exceeding the frequency and intensity of the Braxton-Hicks contractions. In the event of increased tone before the 37th week of pregnancy, this is a sign of the threat of premature birth.
The same contractions, but after the 37th week of pregnancy, are already called harbingers. They have their own characteristics. The main distinguishing feature of precursor contractions is their irregularity. The contractions themselves are short-lived - only a few seconds, rarely - up to a minute. The pauses between such contractions are very variable and can be from 10-15 to 20-30 minutes.
Harbinger contractions usually appear 5-7 days before childbirth, in the evenings or at the beginning of the night, preventing a woman from falling asleep for several hours. Then they go away by themselves or after a massage, a warm bath, or a soothing tea. A few hours before delivery, mild uterine tension may be accompanied by loose stools. Sometimes contractions are presented only by pulling sensations in the lower abdomen and aching pains in the lower back and sacrum. This is uncomfortable. You can relieve the condition by breathing exercises, stroking the abdomen clockwise, gently and gently, with the whole palm.
Labor pains differ from the forerunners in their regularity and a gradual increase in frequency and intensity.
As soon as the contractions begin, note the time between them on the clock. Within two hours you will have no doubt about the nature of these contractions. Labor pains will regularly and gradually increase, and you cannot say this about the forerunners - they are incomprehensible, sluggish, irregular.

8. Ripening of the cervix

The cervix is ​​a muscle formation with circular muscle fibers that form the entrance and exit of the uterus. In this case, we are interested in the exit function. Opening slightly in the prenatal period, the cervix becomes soft, pliable, short (1-1.5 cm versus 3 cm during pregnancy), which facilitates its further disclosure during childbirth. Such a cervix is ​​mature, which means that it is ready for the onset of labor.
This harbinger is more visible to the obstetrician during examination than to the woman herself. The maturity of the cervix is ​​an important criterion of the body's readiness for childbirth. Willingness corresponds to a certain state of the nervous system (the inclusion of the generic dominant), the hormonal background corresponding to the end of pregnancy and has reached the threshold level necessary to start the generic process.

Most pregnant women look forward to the final weeks before giving birth. Many patients in the position believe that this is the best period in order to enjoy the pregnancy. In fact, the patient's feelings before the onset of labor change dramatically. Pregnant women experience dramatic changes in well-being, irritability and drowsiness before childbirth.

Why at a later date, patients in a position really want to sleep? What happens to the body of a pregnant woman a few days and hours before giving birth? How long does the lull last? What are the signs that signal an impending contraction?

Feelings of a woman just before childbirth

In anticipation of the onset of labor, the woman's sensations change slightly. The first changes begin three weeks before the onset of labor and last until the birth process. A pregnant woman during this period is experiencing a powerful hormonal change, which affects mental health and the functionality of internal organs. The main task for the expectant mother is not to overlook or confuse normal physiological changes with the development of pathology. Any new sensations that raise doubts should be discussed with the gynecologist conducting the pregnancy.

Well-being in the last weeks of pregnancy

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The well-being of pregnant women before childbirth has its own specifics. The emotional state of the woman in labor, like the physical, changes somewhat. Some patients in the position feel weakness, drowsiness and fatigue against the background of significant fetal weight gain 2-3 weeks before childbirth, so they constantly want to sleep (we recommend reading :). In other pregnant women, on the contrary, there is a lull. They are enjoying the final days of pregnancy and are in the mood for the coming birth.

Physiological changes are associated with the preparation of the body for the upcoming birth process. Abdominal prolapse is an absolutely normal physiological phenomenon due to the baby's desire to exit the birth canal.

If the gynecologist notices that the abdomen has dropped strongly, the cervix has smoothed out and became soft, this indicates the maturity of the fetus and imminent birth.

The physical state

Many pregnant women are very afraid of any physical disturbances a few days before giving birth, so they often turn to their gynecologist for an explanation of what kind of changes await them. At the 9th month of pregnancy, all patients in the position face the following physiological changes:

• Abdominal prolapse. The height of the uterine fundus is an indicator of the dynamics of the baby's development. This parameter is measured by a gynecologist at each scheduled and unscheduled visit. The highest indicator of the height of the standing of the fundus is observed at 37-38 weeks. At this time, patients most often complain of strong pressure on the stomach and diaphragm. 2-4 weeks before childbirth, the abdomen begins to sink down to the pubis. The expectant mother can see this omission even in the mirror. Such a change signals that the child begins to move towards the birth canal. Accordingly, it becomes easier for a woman to breathe, but at this time, women in labor often experience discomfort in the pubic area.

• Frequent trips to the toilet. As the fetus grows intensively in the last weeks of pregnancy, the uterus begins to press hard on the intestines and bladder. Many patients go to the doctor with complaints of frequent urination, especially at night, but in fact this phenomenon is an absolute norm. The stool of a pregnant woman also becomes frequent and liquefied a few weeks before delivery.
• Profuse discharge. A few days or hours before the onset of contractions, the patient, as a rule, notices an excessive amount of mucous discharge on her underwear. They can signal the destruction and partial or complete release of the mucous plug.
• Painful sensations. A day or two before the onset of labor, a pregnant woman periodically experiences pulling pains, similar to the manifestations of menstruation.
• Fossilization of the uterus. This is the main sign of training contractions. They are also accompanied by painful sensations in the lower abdomen or back. Unlike true fights, training fights are irregular.
• Bulging of the navel. Some women experience this change in the middle of the third trimester. The bulging is due to excessive pressure on the abdominal area.

Psychological condition

The emotional health of a pregnant woman changes dramatically in the last weeks before childbirth. Many women are very concerned about this issue and they are trying to independently find the reason why this is happening. Most pregnant women in the 3rd trimester are overtaken by apathy and weakness. Many women associate their fatigue and loss of strength with the fact that the child is actively gaining weight and putting pressure on all organs. Against this background, all the usual things become a burden. It is difficult for pregnant women in late stages to put on shoes, bathe in the shower and go for walks with a huge belly.

Many women are characterized by tearfulness and irritability. This is due to the fact that cardinal changes occur in the body of a pregnant woman at a later date due to the upcoming birth. Patients in a position sometimes themselves cannot explain what is happening to their body, and why tears sometimes roll for no reason.

In this case, a woman should pull herself together and think about her baby. Fear, fear contribute to increased spasm, as a result of which the likelihood of a slow opening of the cervix increases.

On the contrary, some expectant mothers have a nesting effect during this period. They strive to equip their own apartment as comfortably as possible, including the nursery. This effect has many positive aspects. A pregnant woman has little free time for thoughts and reflections that catch up with melancholy. Home improvement can become part of a pregnant woman's own self-realization.

Why can you feel unwell at the end of the 3rd trimester?

The poor health of a woman at the end of the 3rd trimester is explained by hormonal changes. An increase in the amount of estrogen in the blood affects a woman's mood. Loud laughter and joy can suddenly be replaced by tears.

In addition to the fact that a pregnant patient in the later stages experiences apathy, a breakdown, she may begin to be bothered by other unpleasant symptoms:

• excessive sweating;
• blood pressure surges;
• unreasonable chills or fever;
• blurred consciousness and dizziness.

All of the above manifestations, although considered normal physiological changes in late pregnancy, should be reported by the patient to the gynecologist who is leading the pregnancy. If such signs are indeed manifestations of hormonal imbalance, the woman must follow the doctor's recommendations.

What caused the sudden change in mood?

Mood instability a couple of days before the onset of labor is absolutely normal. In addition to changes in hormonal levels, the cause of mood swings is a pregnant woman's own mood. Many women become depressed; other pregnant women are shrouded in fear. Mood change is a kind of defensive reaction to external and internal irritating factors. Unreasonable headaches or dizziness can trigger tears in a second.

Harbingers of childbirth

Most patients in position are eagerly awaiting the harbingers of childbirth. Abdominal prolapse, pain, severe discharge and other signs cannot indicate that childbirth will begin day after day (we recommend reading :). The most accurate precursors of contractions include:

• Discharge of the mucous plug (for more details in the article:). Women who have a jelly-like mucus plug can rejoice. Its destruction is a signal that contractions will begin in a matter of days or hours. The plug can come off completely at one time or partially over several days. Complete destruction of the mucous membrane is a sure sign that the cervix is ​​beginning to open.
• Training uterine contractions. Many patients before childbirth go through training contractions (for more details in the article:). At the same time, the woman experiences the same pain as during real contractions. The only difference is the regularity. If the interval between them is different, this means that real contractions will begin only after a couple of days or weeks.
• Softening of the cervix. If the doctor at the examination noticed that the cervix has become softer and more pliable, this means that it is completely ready for the onset of labor. Her maturity is an exact criterion that signals the readiness of the female body for childbirth.