[kms2985]

I am 36 weeks pregnant and I am feeling pressure against my stomach like the baby is pushing with all of her strength against my stomach. I also feel pressure against my vagina. There is no pain other than the cramps that I have in my left thigh, it is just uncomfortable. Should I be concerned?

[DoulaLC]

Hi kms2985,

Probably not a concern as it is common to start to feel more pressure towards the end of pregnancy. It may be some early practice contractions.

When you next feel it, press gently all over your stomach to see if it is hard all over or just hard in part of it. If hard all over, it is likely a contraction... Braxton Hicks contractions are basically like practice contractions. You can try getting something to drink, and changing your activity. If lying or sitting down, get up and walk around. Go get something to eat or use the toilet. If moving about, try relaxing for awhile. Braxton Hicks will usually subside when you change what you are doing.

If hard in just one area, it is likely baby's bottom or back pressing against you.

If they come and go, start keeping track. Contact your care provider if you feel that they continue or develop a pattern, such as every 10 minutes or so.

If it is just a now and then thing that you experience, again it is likely just part of being near the end of pregnancy. The vaginal pressure can sometimes be relieved by using a birth ball. It is just an exercise or large yoga ball. Sitting on hit, and rocking, can provide counter pressure against your perineum as well as relieve back discomfort. They are great to use in labour as well.

With all of that said, if you continue to feel concerned, give your doctor or midwife a call for the peace of mind.