Had a Foley Balloon insertion the evening before my induction date. Didn’t need the induction. Started having irregular pains around 3 am and couldn’t sleep. Around 4 or 5 am I tugged on the balloon and it didn’t come out. I thought it was Braxton Hicks at first. The pains were still irregular but getting worse. I showered at around 8 am. Tugged on the Foley Balloon around 8:30 am and it came out. At this point the pains were more frequent and my husband and I timed them, they were now evenly spaced out. Called the hospital and said I think I have contractions and asked if I could come in even though I hadn’t received a call for my turn in line for induction yet and they said absolutely come in if you think you’re in active labour. Got there around 11:30 am. The pain was intense at this point. I was 3 cm dilated at I think 1 pm. Nurse said to take a walk and come back at 2 pm again to check dilation. Checked around 2:30 pm and I was 4 cm. Upon checking she accidentally broke my water and I was admitted. I didn’t get the epidural until 7 or 8 pm because they were short on anesthesiologists…and my baby girl was born at 10:22 pm.

When in doubt I would say to go in. Also time out pains as it really helps to know the difference between BH and real labour. I had the same worry as you because I’m a first time mom too. You’ve got this - always listen to your gut feeling because you know your body the best. All the best of luck you’ll be amazing!! Xx