Did my doctor stretch me?

[Kaylamomof3]

I should have asked her but I've never been checked before she checked me for dilation today and when she was in there she was moving around and stretching her fingers for about 3 minutes.  I know I should have asked her all she said was I was 4 cm dilated.  I have been having menstrual like cramps since with the normal back pain I get during my labors.  Any idea how long it takes to dilate from 4 cm especially is this was a stretch?

[Sarah765]

4 cm does not mean you are in active labor.  Its the contractions being regular, and you activly dialating that means your in labor.  I was 5 cm for almost 2 weeks with my second.  I was not in active labor.  I had a perfectly good hospital birth when I finally did go into labor.  

[Kaylamomof3]

oh I am not doing it at home I have three small children they would be terrified if they heard anything.  I have been thinking about heading to the hospital now but my bf thinks he has a phd and won't leace ubtil my contractions are at his timing.  kinda need to start getting contractions

[ibvs]

Haha, sure.  Are you planning to give birth at home?  At 4+ cm you might as well head to the hospital now if you were planning to give birth there.

[Kaylamomof3]

I was going to try having sex but I've been cramping and I should at least enjoy it

[Kaylamomof3]

that's what I thought.  I thought 4 cm was active labor.  from experience with my others.  she just sent me home and told me to get ready.  Water has not broken yet.  

[ibvs]

This is a little confusing, 4cm means you should be in the active phase of labor.  At 4cm dilation, it should be only 4-6 hours before delivery if progression is normal, any longer would be considered prolonged.  Has your water broken yet?  You could give birth any time now.

[PurpleLush07]

Have sex it Will bring out the contravtions. to dilate