WHEN TO CALL THE HOSPITAL – APRIL 2019 PAGE 1 OF 2
Sometimes during late pregnancy, changes may occur that can concern some women.
Many of these concerns can be raised and discussed at your clinic appointment,
however some should be discussed with a midwife as soon as possible.
When should I call the hospital?
You should contact the hospital if you
experience any of the following symptoms:
•
If your waters break (this may occur before
or after labour contractions begin).
•
If you have vaginal bleeding that is not
mixed with mucous. Vaginal bleeding with
lots of mucous is called a ‘show’ and is a
sign that labour is progressing normally.
You can also get a ‘show’ if you have had a
vaginal examination during your admission.
•
If the contractions are regular, last more
than 30 seconds and are closer than
5 minutes apart.
•
If you are frightened or unsure about what is
happening.
•
If you need drugs for pain management.
•
If you do not feel your baby moving.
Who should I call?
To speak with a midwife at the hospital about any
of these concerns, you should call:
•
(03) 8345 3635 (Parkville patients)
•
(03) 9076 1245 (Sandringham patients)
Do not call these number for general enquiries.
Am I in labour?
It is not unusual for some women to have
more than one admission before labour is fully
established, especially if this is your first baby.
Sometimes early labour is called the latent
phase of labour, or pre-labour. If you are
having a baby for the first time, pre-labour may
last for a few hours, days or weeks.
The irregular contractions that you may feel
during this time are making your cervix (the
neck of the womb) soften and thin out, ready
to open further. Most women experience
contractions as similar to intermittent period
pains.
When should I come to hospital?
Research tells us that for well, full term women
and babies, the best place to spend this phase
of labour is at home. ‘Well, full term’ means
that your pregnancy is more than 37 weeks’
gestation and you and your baby are well.
If you have been given any different
information related to your individual
circumstances, please follow those specific
instructions.
At home, you have the freedom of your own
surroundings. You can eat, sleep and move
around at your own pace.
Listen to your body and do what you
instinctively feel is right for you. Remember
that your experience is uniquely yours.
WHEN TO CALL THE HOSPITAL
ADVICE FOR WOMEN IN LATE PREGNANCY