Braxton Hicks at 36 Weeks

I am a midwife and what you are experiencing is very normal. Sometimes they can be caused by dehydration so it was good that you drank some water. When you start having contractions if they go away after awhile you are not in labor. Contractions should get stronger, longer and more frequent. Stay home as long as you can once labor kicks in. Don't go to the hospital too early or the interventions will start and your chances of a VBAC will diminish.

Lisa

Drinking water was GREAT, good job! And CONGRATULATIONS (a little early) on the upcoming birth!!! :)

I've had BHC starting in my 4th month lol. Yes you did the right thing. Basically if you are unsure if you are in labor or if it is just BHC change what you are doing. I.E. if you're sitting/laying then get up and move around. If you are working around the house or walking then sit and relax for a bit. If the contractions go away then it wasn't labor and you can just go about your business. Also KEEP HYDRATED!!! Dehydration can cause you to have contractions (plus it is a very healthy habit to get into lol).
EDIT: Oh and good for you for going for a VBAC! as long as there aren't any physical reasons why you can't have the baby naturally (as in a small pelvic opening or other such problem) then remember your body can do this. Just relax through the contractions, ONE AT A TIME, until it is time to push. You CAN do this! :-D

You are so close to full term I wouldn't bother calling the doctor til you think you are in real labor. You know and your body knows what that is....drink water, put your feet up and relax.

You will know when to call your doc.

yes, I think you did the right thing. Since they slowed or went away with your activity, you are right about them being braxton hicks. I had them for 2 weeks before my second one came at 37 weeks and everything was fine and went great. You'll know when they are the real thing and "it's time". :)

Hi F.! First of all, congratulations on the addition to your family!

I went rather early with my daughter. She thought 34.5 weeks was enough to bake. LOL! Healthy baby though so :). My sister on the other hand, started having braxton hicks around 35 weeks too. Like you, she was timing them. They would even get closer & closer together, increase in intensity, so we went to the hospital. Three times. All three times she was a little dehydrated. Once they got her re-hydrated, they stopped & all was good.

So I'd say you did great! Trust that Mommy-gut & your baby will be just fine! Congratulations again!!!