When should I go to the hospital?

As you get closer to your due date that question will likely pop into your head at some point. From about 36 weeks on, you start to feel some major changes that your body is going through. I recently went to the hospital after being advised by a triage nurse. While I was there, an RN and I began talking about how confusing it can be, and when we should actually head to the hospital. I decided to take some notes that may help you through some of this question:

Head to the hospital IF:

• Your contractions continue to become stronger, more regular and closer together (*Use the 5-1-1 rule)
• You have a gushing, burst or leaking of fluid from your vagina
• You have an oral temperature above 102 degrees develops
• You develop vaginal bleeding
• You develop continuous abdominal pain
• You develop lower back pain (pain that you haven't had before)
• You feel the baby's head pushing down causing pelvic pressure
• The baby isn't moving as much as he/she used to

These are, from what she told me some pretty basic guidelines to follow. It is ALWAYS recommended that you call your OBGYN's office first and speak to either your doctor or if they have a triage nurse thats on call, speak with him/her. If you can't get a hold of anyone don't be afraid to call the hospital that you will be giving birth at or if you are having a at home birth, call you midwife or doula.