At the start of your pregnancy we will calculate your due date. This is the date when you are 40 weeks pregnant. The normal term to give birth is between 37 and 42 weeks. Giving birth within this term means your midwife will be able to guide you during your labour.
In case you go into labour before 37 weeks or after 42 weeks, you will be assisted by a gynaecologist.
The below conditions for when to call apply for women who are at least 37 weeks pregnant:
Contractions
A contraction is the painful tightening of the uterus. For most women this is an indescribable feeling that is instantly recognized when felt. Contractions that are 3 to 4 minutes apart and last for one minute cause the uterus to dilate. Call us when you are having contractions every 3 to 4 minutes that last one minute during a period of 2 hours. If you have given birth before, you don’t need to wait 2 hours. You can call us after 1 hour or whenever you think you need us.
Loss of amniotic fluid
The uterus contains a large amount of amniotic fluid, surrounded by tough, elastic membranes. When these membranes break, amniotic fluid starts leaking out. This can come out in a gush but also as a slow trickle. Call us if you think your waters have broken. During the day you should call immediately. If you lose clear amniotic fluid without having contractions at night, you can call in the morning. In case the fluid is green or brown, please call our emergency number, day or night.
Blood loss
Vaginal blood loss is normal during childbirth. However there are differences in the amount of blood loss. Slimy blood loss when wiping on the toilet is normal. In case the blood is bright red similar to menstrual blood, you need to call us.
Fetal movement
At 27 weeks into your pregnancy you should be able to feel your baby move every day. Please call us if this is not the case. We will perform an extra check.
Concerns or questions
Do not hesitate to call us if you are worried about something or you have an urgent question.