A primigravida calls Labor and Delivery and tells the nurse that she is 39 weeks pregnant and that over the last 4 or 5 days,she has noticed that although her breathing has become easier,she is having leg cramps,a slight amount of edema in her lower legs,and an increased amount of vaginal secretions.The nurse tells the client that she has experienced what is commonly called:

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The symptoms described by the client are consistent with "lightening," which refers to the descent of the fetus into the pelvis as the due date approaches. This can relieve pressure on the diaphragm, making breathing easier, but can also cause leg cramps and increased vaginal secretions. Mild edema in the lower legs is also a common pregnancy symptom. Quickening refers to the first movements felt by the mother from the fetus, dilation refers to the opening of the cervix during labor, and Braxton Hicks contractions are painless contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy.

A Primigravida Calls Labor and Delivery and Tells the Nurse