Cramping.... my doctor is useless!

Hi Ladies! Alright, now I KNOW this has been asked a few times because I've read the posts myself but now that I can relate to it, I can't seem to find it! So I'm sorry to repeating a question!  Closer I get to my due date, the more questions I have. And I've started to noticed that my family doctor really doesn't seem to know that much about pregnancy. So I can't WAIT to see my OB next week!  This is my question!!! *** I've had a lot more braxton hicks (sp?) past week.. get stronger and stronger, now I'm starting to get period-like cramps. I know I'm not going into labour because it comes and goes through-out the day. I'll have it one minute then again 3 hours later. But they get strong as the days go by. Is this a sign that Labour maybe sooner then later? Or is it normal body stuff for 33 1/2 weeks?***

[nanis]

I am 32 wks & also been having alot of BH & threy are also getting stronger.The only thing is my BH are so far apart.Maybe 3 in an hour.The cramping also comes & goes.I was told they can not check if I'm dialated bc it can cause more harm than good.I go every 2 wks now & also feel my Dr does not know how I'm feeling.But then again God forbid we have our babies NOW,its way to early.

[ShamansMommy]

I would say its normal cause your body cant get where it needs to be for birth in a few hours (thank God!) and has been preparing itself since u got pregnant. It makes sense it would get more noticable as u get closer to ur due date. Unless they get serious I wouldnt worry about it. And if u are uncomfortable with ur doctor, its never too late to switch to a midwife =) BELIEVE ME u need very much to be comfortable with your birth attendant. A friend of mine made the switch at 36 weeks, and was very happy with her decision. Just a thought =) good luck ladies and congrats!!

[rubyolivia]

I'm almost 30 weeks and I'm also having the same thing! Horrible cramping for a minute or 2 and then it's gone. My BH are frequent, but as you said...very random! Must be normal!

[anxiousmomtobe?]

If they are not falling into a regular pattern, I would not worry.  Make sure you are getting lots of water as even a slight dehydration can bring them on.

The next time you get a whole bunch, lie on your left side, drink a big glass of water and see if they go.

It is not a sign of premature labour, just your uterus practicing and yes they can really hurt.

[hopefulmommie]

im 32 weeks and im going through the same thing. I actually had a Ob appointment yesterday and my doctor told me that I should drink more water.At least a gallon a day she said. Which is hard for me to do, I guess thats why I've been having the cramps and BH contractions a lot. Just try to drink more water that's what I'm doing