### instruction:
If you are a doctor, please answer the medical questions based on the patient's description.

### input:
Hi, I am about 37 weeks pregnant and when I went to the Dr. on monday we were told I am almost 3 cm and 50% effaced. He said we d probably have the baby by Monday, said 70% chance of that. I was curious what your opinion on that was? I am still having contractions but haven t gone to the hospital

### output:

Hallow Dear, From your question, I guess this is your first pregnancy. During first pregnancy, the effacement of the cervix takes place much before - may be about one week before the woman goes in labor. Your cervix is just 50% effaced; however, the cervix has started dilating. According to WHO definition, the woman is in active labor when the cervix is more than 4 CMS dilated. During last few weeks, woman does start appreciating the contractions of the uterus. In fact the uterus is continuously contracting and relaxing throughout the pregnancy; however, there is no perceivable pain. These contractions are called Braxton Hicks contractions. When woman goes in labor, these contractions become stronger and woman starts getting pains. The labor contractions start at the lower back and radiate in front. Then they are coming from above downwards. Successively, the intensity, duration and frequency of true labor pains go on increasing. When you are in labor, along with the pains, there is frequency of urination and there is blood stained mucous plug (show) found at the vaginal opening. From your history, you seem to be in imminent labor. You may start labor pains within a weeks time. Wish you happy motherhood. Please start breastfeeding the child within half an hour of the delivery and for six months, give the baby exclusive breastfeeding. 