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Week by Week

Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q.At my doctor's appointment almost two weeks ago, my doctor said I was at 0 station, 100% effaced, and two centimeters dilated. since then i have had lots of cramping, but have not gone into labor yet! my doctor was out of town last week so i dont know how things are progressing, but I want to know if I am going to be pregnant forever! Is there anything to do to speed things along?

A. I can assure you that you won't be pregnant forever. Some women have a lot of prelabor cramping and can dilate and efface extremely well without necessarily being in labor. This is nice in the sense that when you go into labor a lot of the work is already done. Getting from 1-4 centimeters is said to take the longest and if you can do that before labor--it is just great! I know it is so frustrating to hear this and then still wait day after day wondering Is this THE day?

If the baby is healthy sometimes nipple stimulation and /or orgasm can trip you over into labor. This can be a pleasant way to wait out the last days. Lovemaking releases oxytocin, (natural pitocin) that can begin contractions. Remember not to attempt vaginal intercourse if your bag of waters breaks-there is a risk of infection.

And remember, when the baby is ready your labor will begin in earnest, and you will soon hold him in your arms. Try to relax and enjoy this last bit of pregnancy. It will not be much longer.

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.