Question about Contractions

[ladybugbob1029]

OK - last night I went to L&D.  I was having strong contractions (although not pa inful just lots of pressure) and cramping every ten minutes for an hour and then every 5 to 7 minutes the next hour.  So just to "see" we went to L&D.  They monitored my contractions which went from regular to sporadic and then checked my cervix....CLOSED!  So I was sent home - of course.  However - while I was there this really young girl (maybe 16 or 17) came in with her water already broke and dialated to a 5 - was a 6 before I left.  And I got scared out of my mind!!!  Every time she would have a contraction she would scream as though someone were trying to kill her and she was crying and she was begging - make this stop please make this stop.  I got SO freaked out.  I started thinking - I'm not sure I can do this.  It was about 1 in the morning, so she was having to wait for the anesthesiologist to come up to the floor to give her an epidural - but I'm wondering.  Can it be that painful?  Is it possible she was kind of a drama queen?  I don't know - she sounded like she was in sooo much pain, I just started praying for her.  I mean - what does it really feel like???

[Dani711]

I realize that labor is going to be so painful, but I am inclined to think that someone that young hasn't really experienced that much in life yet and is scared out of her mind as it is.  I too am scared, but if you go into it realizing it is going to hurt...bad...and you are totally ready for your little baby to get here, I think it will make a huge difference.  Best of luck :)

[mapes10]

With both deliveries I wasn't in "real" pain until about 5 cm or so.  Before that the contractions are pretty manageable.  Yes they are painful, but the epidural helps and your body adjusts.  Don't worry.  Your little bundle will be here soon.