Two days before labor, you might experience several physical and emotional changes indicating that childbirth is approaching. It's a time of heightened anticipation and potential discomfort.
Here's a breakdown of what you might feel:
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Physical Symptoms:
- Low Back Pain: This is a common symptom as your body prepares for labor. The baby's position and the loosening of joints can cause aches and pains in your lower back.
- Weight Loss: You might notice a slight weight loss (around 1-3 pounds). This is often due to fluid shifts in your body.
- Diarrhea: Increased bowel movements or diarrhea can occur as your body clears itself out in preparation for labor.
- Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions: You might experience more frequent and potentially stronger Braxton Hicks contractions (practice contractions). These can feel like a tightening of your abdomen but are usually irregular and don't intensify like true labor contractions.
- The urge to nest: You may experience a strong urge to clean, organize and prepare your home for your baby's arrival.
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Emotional Symptoms:
- Anxiety and Excitement: It's common to feel a mix of anxiety about the upcoming labor and excitement about meeting your baby.
- Impatience: You may feel increasingly impatient and eager for labor to begin.
- Restlessness: Some women experience restlessness and difficulty sleeping in the days leading up to labor.
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Other Possible Signs (Not Guaranteed):
- Water Breaking: While dramatic in movies, only a small percentage of women experience their water breaking before labor begins.
- Loss of Mucus Plug: You might lose your mucus plug, which is a thick mucus that blocks the cervix. This can happen days or weeks before labor, or even during labor itself. It can be clear, pink, or slightly bloody ("bloody show").
Important Note: Every pregnancy is different, and not everyone experiences the same symptoms. If you have any concerns or notice a significant change in your condition, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Signs such as decreased fetal movement, persistent headaches, visual disturbances, or heavy bleeding warrant immediate medical attention.
