Head is engaged and unmoveable... does that mean labour could be soon?

[Indadhanu]

Just wondering... I had a MW appointment yesterday, she had a poke around and said "she dropped down perfectly, her heads engaged and unmoveable, all ready and raring to go".

What does that mean?

She also made an appointment for two weeks but said she'll see us soon

So does it really mean labour could be soon? She didn't check my cervix or anything like that but when I did a bit of feeling its dropping down ALOT (I checked about two weeks ago and it was unreachable). It feels like theres a lot less room in there IYKWIM. And I've been getting a lot of cramps, deep period-like cramps, and a backache (which could be put down to the fact that I have cleaned and washed almost everything in the house in two days so dunno if that counts LOL!).

*Now if my SIL or one of my know it all friends says it too me I'd happily deck them!*, but I don't mind hearing this from my BB buddies so give it to me straight... could I be like this for weeks? Or does the head being engaged mean things will more than likely happen soon?

[~Trish~]

I hate to say it, but it could stay this way for weeks *ducks for cover*

DS2 was fully engaged at 36 weeks (I actually felt the moment it happened LOL), but he was born 5 days overdue. I was told by the midwives that I could go "at any time now", I hate that!!!

So, I suppose the answer is Yes, it's possible you could go soon, but it's also possible you will feel this uncomfortable for a few more weeks yet...

Sorry I'm not much help :P

[Lulu]

I agree with Trish!

Its pretty funny from my side of the computer - once everyone hits the 36 week mark, they post wondering if they are going to go early. *ducks for cover*

Look, things are getting ready and they will continue to do so for awhile. Some engage 30mins before birth, some weeks before, you might have BH forever, maybe not at all.

Just keep nesting but DO NOT GO OVERBOARD in the frenzy. I hurt my back and didn't know it till DS was born. OUCHIE!

[rose]

Hi Leasha,
I read somewhere and know by experience that first time mums are more likely to fully engage around 36 weeks but most times don't go into labor for a few more weeks. Us multi's usually don't engage till closer to D day or when in labor.

That said, it does not mean you can't go any day. Just don't put your hopes on it as it may be a long few weeks.

(Now I will run away)

[Indadhanu]

once everyone hits the 36 week mark, they post wondering if they are going to go early.

LOL thats cos we've got nothing else to do but wonder when it'll happen hehehe!

Ah well, thats what I was expecting! S'pose I'll just make myself a bum groove on the couch and wait

[Alan]

Hi Leasha
I agree with all the rest. It is quite common for a first time mum to engage at 36 weeks. This is not an indication that you will go into labour early