BTDT Moms with IBS - How did you know it was labor?

For those that have IBS and already went through labor, how did you know it was labor and not IBS stomach pains? I'm 39wks and I've been having stomach pains for the last 4 hours. I have no idea if I'm just having stomach cramps or contractions

(My mucus plug did come out though). TIA!!

Re: BTDT Moms with IBS - How did you know it was labor?

Not sure how much I can help because my IBS is under control so long as I take 2 fiber every day. If you are still experiencing IBS cramps then it may be tougher to tell. It depends on how strong your contractions are. Have you asked the ob? with baby #1 my water broke b4 contractions began at all so there was no mistaking taht b/c it was insanely fast and furious from that point on. With DS it was much more subtle.. They started as very subtle contractions though I knew that's what they were. that would be a tougher situation for you.

Either way your labor will be more controlled and precise than IBS> because the contraction will start and end at regular intervals. HTH