The patient is a 26-year-old G1P0 at 38 weeks, 2 days of gestation. She is at her provider's office for a visit and complains to the nurse of wrist pain, fatigue, increased discharge, and "feeling heavy." Which complaint could be a sign of impending labor?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Increased discharge can be a sign of impending labor as the cervix begins to soften and thin out (efface) and the mucus plug may be released. Wrist pain and fatigue may be related to pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel syndrome and general fatigue associated with the late stage of pregnancy. Feeling heavy is a common complaint in late pregnancy due to the weight of the growing baby and uterus. However, it is not necessarily a sign of impending labor.

The Patient Is a 26-Year-Old G1P0 at 38 Weeks, 2