can sharp like shooting pains up the backs of the legs be a sign of labour?

Question

they seem to be coming and going... along with the odd sharp stabbing pain im getting in my belly.
ive got 3 mobile numbers for my midwife and all phones are off and the maternity ward just tell me to take paracetamol and have a bath.
im 38 weeks tomorrow.

Answer 1

They could be Braxton Hicks contractions or false labor pains. These pains can occur throughout pregnancy, but get more noticeable If you're within a few weeks of your due date. Try some of these measures:
• Change your activity or position. Sometimes walking provides relief, and other times resting eases your contractions. (Real labor contractions, on the other hand, will persist and progress regardless of what you do.)
• Take a warm bath to help your body relax.
• Try drinking a couple glasses of water, since these contractions can sometimes be brought on by dehydration.
• Try relaxation exercises or slow, deep breathing. This won't stop the Braxton Hicks contractions, but it may help you cope with the discomfort. (Use this opportunity to practice some of the pain-management strategies you learned in your childbirth preparation class.)

Keep trying to get hold of your midwife while you try these measures. If the pains get unbearable or they get stronger and closer together go to the ER.

Answer 2

Hehehehe, believe me... when you're going into labour, you'll know. ;)
Just relax and of course keep an eye out for signs of things going awry, but overall, just try to take it easy, or do things to take your mind off the pregnancy issue (which, I know, can be very hard)
It's not a good thing that your midwife's phones are off the hook btw... what if you'd really needed her and you couldn't reach her??? :(
At any rate, muscle pains of all sorts are very common during pregnancy, especially in the later stages. You should be fine if you have no other complaints.

Answer 3

The leg pain sounds more like leg cramps. I used to get horrible ones in my calfs when I was pregnant. Mostly when I was sleeping. The pain would get so bad it would wake me up. The stabbing pains in your stomach might not be related. Could be contractions although most women describe them as tightning at least in the beginning. I would try to relax, maybe take a nap (while you still can) and drink plenty of fluids too. Moniter and time the pains.

Answer 4

u are getting ready...take some extra iron pills.. and try to relax as much as u can. Congrats.