36 Weeks and 1-2 Days.

This was seriously the most depressing day of this whole pregnancy. I had been having contractions (mild) all day and was told to go walk so what was I doing? Walking. Around 6 o'clock my contractions became consistent at about 3 minutes apart, lasting for about a minute at a time and some painful, some I just felt. Called a little after 7 and was told to come in. At the doctor, I was measuring at a 5. Got on the monitors at the hospital and they were tracking the contractions. I was checked by an OB Fellow and was a 5-6. Let sit for 2 more hours. IV suggested in the case labor starts hard...I take it because I would like an epidural. IV in and fluids to keep my hydrated are started. Contractions slow and then 15 minutes before the doctor was to come and check me again, my contractions came back with a vengence. I have NEVER felt the pain this strong before. I couldn't breathe, I felt tighter everywhere...lower higher and through the sides...Checked again, definitely a 6, baby moved lower...going to continue to watch me. Contractions started spacing but were still intense...just a waiting game.

I was in active labor for 6 hours before it completely stopped.

They cannot do anything to progress or help labor at 36 weeks because the child is still under preterm. I understand, but I have been to the hospital with this kid ready to come 6 times now and its getting to be too much for me to handle going in and then always being sent away. The only thing good that came from this hospital visit was the fact I felt some intense contractions and know what to look for a little better than before. If I hop into active labor again, I must dilate on my own or my water must break for me to have this baby...they will not do anything until 37 weeks. Come 37 weeks, if I go in having consistent contractions they will. It is looking like for sure a baby next week. I have been having contractions again all day, but just haven't even bothered monitoring them out of complete frustration. I know I should be...but it sucks. I was about to have my son...I was progressing...then NOTHING. I am sick of being teased. I simply cannot do this anymore, I cried the whole way home...balled. (Of course, getting only 30 minutes of sleep in the hours of 7pm-9am didn't help) but still.

I know he would be preterm still but I am only 4 days away from 37 weeks. He has gotten SO FAR already and received 2 sets of steroid shots...It's selfish of me to just want him now I know, but I don't care. I cannot handle another night like that again...I think?

-Rachel

(PS: I'd really appreciate if everyone just read the post and accepted it. I know people have gone through similar if not worse...but I just want to share my experience in peace. Thanks)