Definitions

Contractions

When to make a doctor’s appointment

Call a doctor if:

• Irregular contractions
• Stop when walking or stop altogether
• Don�t get stronger or closer together

Self-care

Keep a record of contractions when they start, including how strong they are and how much time passes from the start of one to the next. Change positions or walk around to see if they stop.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a doctor immediately if:

• Vaginal spotting or bleeding
• Watery vaginal discharge that gushes or trickles
• Belly cramps
• Decreased fetal movement
• Contractions between five and 10 minutes apart

When to make a doctor's appointment

Call a doctor if:

• Irregular contractions
• Stop when walking or stop altogether
• Don't get stronger or closer together