Weeks 37 and 38 ~ Contractions I went into labor on December 2, 2000. I labored all day and even managed to make it to 4cm dilated and 75% effaced. Then, labor completely stopped. The contractions became more like Braxton Hicks contractions, and I completely quit progressing. We tried to naturally augment labor. We tried a nap, black cohosh and nipple stimulation. All worked briefly and then tapered right back off. Finally, at 3 am, I decided I was just too tired to keep trying, and that I was quitting before we managed to break my waters. ADVERTISEMENT So, the last two weeks have been one big blur. Unfortunately, the contractions have been pretty much constant. I had two days when I had no contractions, and the rest of the time, they have always been there. It's been a very demoralizing two weeks, not to mention emotionally draining. So, I decided to fight back. I have been doing everything I can to keep myself busy and my mind off the contractions. It's been great for my productivity. We managed to get all of the Christmas shopping done. All of the last minute baby things are now taken care of, and the house is spotless. Emily and I have baked Christmas goodies, gone to see Christmas decorations and played every game conceivable to a two year old. Through all of this, I haven't managed to get beyond 4 cm! And, I start to panic every single time Mom leaves for work. I really don't want to have to deliver at the hospital, and I am not sure this kid will wait for a day that Mom isn't working. She didn't schedule her week off until the 17th because Caleb/Tori isn't due until the 23rd or 24th! Fortunately, she does have a good open schedule this month. Basically, as long as baby comes during the week, she can be here, but if s/he comes on the weekend, we will have to head to the hospital. It seems everything is a waiting game now, and it's not one I particularly like! I wouldn't mind so much if I didn't have the constant contractions, but at this pace, I could see me going LATE before this baby decides to enter the world. Pregnancy Week By Week Guide - Week 38 Birth Story  |  week 36 return to Johanna's main page StorkNet Home | return to top family planning | pregnancy | parenting | family life | for fun | shopping | tools | community Copyright © 2000 Johanna. All rights reserved. Site Design by StorkNet Please read our disclaimer and privacy policy. Your feedback is always welcome.