A primigravida calls the labor and delivery unit 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 patient that she has experienced what is commonly called:

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The patient has likely experienced "lightening," which occurs when the fetus descends into the pelvis in preparation for birth, relieving pressure on the diaphragm and making breathing easier. This can also cause leg cramps and mild edema in the lower legs. Increased vaginal secretions are also common as the body prepares for labor. Quickening refers to the first movements felt by the mother during pregnancy, dilation is the opening of the cervix during labor, and Braxton Hicks contractions are mild contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy.

A Primigravida Calls the Labor and Delivery Unit and Tells