Today at precisely 1:30 p.m., I received a text from my wife that she believed that she had just had her first contraction. She said it was an intense cramping like a sudden menstrual pain or getting kicked in the gut. It lasted less than a minute and then dissipated. She didn't have another one, so we're assuming it was a Braxton Hicks contraction.
Braxton Hicks contractions are pre-labor contractions, sometimes known as "false" contractions. They are usually irregular in intensity and interval, don't get closer together, and usually get less intense over time. They can usually be "treated" by drinking water, changing positions, and relaxing. They are completely normal and are generally thought to be teaching your body how to prepare for true labor.
The whole thing planted a thought in my wife's head, though, that our baby is going to be early. I started looking up the gestational chart for baby weight by week. I found out that he should only be around 3.75-4 lbs right now, which is scary small...too small. He needs more time to grow. So, I gave the only advice that a father in my position could give...I told her to cross her legs and keep him in there longer!
No comments:
Post a Comment