Prodromal Labor SUCKS
This is part of what I’m dealing with right now — Prodromal labor.
Not Braxton Hicks… they’re different. Honestly, I didn’t even know what prodromal labor was until very recently, and now I wish I didn’t have to learn about it this way.
This pregnancy has been the most emotionally draining rollercoaster I’ve ever been on. I am beyond thankful to be carrying my little man — and beyond excited that I get to be his mom — but I am also completely exhausted.
For those who don’t know what this journey has been like, here’s a little insight:
At 26 weeks, I started bleeding. It was my birthday, and instead of celebrating, I ended up in the hospital. That’s when I was told my cervix was way too soft and short for where it should’ve been, and that I also had BV. I was immediately put on bed rest.
Bed rest sounds relaxing until you have a toddler. Then it’s a whole different story. I am so thankful for my parents and friends who stepped in — from bringing meals, helping clean, and taking my daughter almost every day so I could rest. Their help has been everything.
At 28 weeks, the BV came back even after treatment, so it was back on antibiotics again. Around that same time, the Braxton Hicks started. By the end of 29 weeks, I had my first truly miserable night of what I now know was prodromal labor.
The contractions were consistent — every 5 minutes — lasting 30 to 45 seconds each, and they went on for hours. My mom came over late at night to pick up my toddler, and my husband got my hospital bag ready. I sat in the tub, sucked on ice, shifted positions, and tried everything to find relief. Nothing helped. And then, almost magically, after about five hours of this, right before we were about to leave for the hospital… they slowed down to almost nothing.
It was exhausting, confusing, and honestly heartbreaking.
And since then, it’s happened over and over again. Two nights during week 30, and then multiple days and nights in a row ever since. Now at this point — almost every day, all day, and especially all night — my body is just tired.
Last night I might’ve gotten an hour of sleep. Yesterday I was checked again, and while there’s been no further progress (which is actually a good thing for baby), I did get the okay though to be up and moving more though, but still it’s hard not to feel defeated. Selfishly, I’m over it.
I feel guilty saying that, because I am so grateful — for this baby, for this body that’s kept him safe, and for all the help and support we’ve had. But I’m human. I’m emotional. I’m drained. I wanted so badly to soak up this last pregnancy, to find joy and peace in the slow moments, to feel thankful for this time of stillness on bed rest… but this journey has been far from easy.
My body aches constantly. Some nights/days I add puking into the mix of contractions, and a few night ago I had the shakes for about an hour. Even when the contractions stop, my muscles are sore from fighting against them all day and night.
Most nights, right around 8 or 9 p.m., I start feeling the contractions hit again — and honestly, it feels like I’m back at 6 centimeters with my first born. I delivered her without an epidural. This isn’t mild. It hurts. These aren’t little tightening cramps or me being dramatic — they are real, painful contractions that my body just can’t seem to stop.
We’ve hit the “5-1-1 rule” multiple times, and at this point, I’m pretty sure my doctor is just as exhausted from seeing me as I am from being there (though she truly is a godsend).
I can’t wait for him to be here — I really can’t. But I’m also praying we have several more weeks before that day comes. I just hope this prodromal labor eases up soon, because my body and mind are stretched thin.
Still, I’m holding on to gratitude. Because even in the exhaustion, I know this little boy is healthy — and that’s what matters most. 💙
#highriskpregnacy #prodromallabor #pregnantmamas #stayingpositive #thankful
Prodromal labor is often misunderstood and confused with Braxton Hicks contractions, but it presents distinctly heavier physical and emotional challenges. Unlike the irregular, usually painless Braxton Hicks contractions, prodromal labor consists of consistent, painful contractions that can last for hours or even days without progressing to active labor. This can be incredibly draining for expectant mothers, especially those on bed rest or with high-risk pregnancies. One important aspect of managing prodromal labor involves recognizing the symptoms early, such as regular contractions occurring every 5 to 10 minutes lasting 30 to 45 seconds, which don't lead to cervical dilation or labor progression. Understanding this difference helps prevent unnecessary hospital visits and emotional stress. However, the pain and discomfort can still feel intense, as described by many women enduring this phase. Support networks are crucial during this time. Having family and friends provide physical, emotional, and practical assistance—like meal preparation, childcare for other children, and household chores—can alleviate the strain on the mother. Healthcare providers also play a key role, offering monitoring, reassurance, and sometimes treatment such as antibiotics for infections like BV, which can complicate pregnancy. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, and emotionally drained, as pregnancy can already be a rollercoaster of emotions, especially when complicated by prodromal labor. Mothers are reminded to be compassionate with themselves during this period, acknowledging their feelings and relying on their support systems. Medical professionals generally advise monitoring symptoms closely, following the 5-1-1 rule but remaining aware that prodromal labor doesn’t necessarily lead to immediate delivery. Keeping active within comfort limits and adhering to medical guidance can help maintain well-being. Despite the hardships, many mothers hold onto gratitude for their babies’ health and the support surrounding them, focusing on hope for peaceful weeks ahead. Overall, prodromal labor, while painful and draining, is a complex part of the pregnancy journey that requires enhanced awareness, care, and emotional support to navigate successfully.