i am 38+5w pregnant and for the past 3 days i've been getting horrible sickly back cramps and period type pains but I haven't noticed a pattern, I am trying to stay active by going for walks but i have to stop every 5 mins as my bump feels really heavy. Could this be an early sign of labour?

I had backache too during last few weeks due to the weight of my tummy. However, if you are having sharp back pain (like breaking of your back), it indicates you are going into labor very soon. If you feel very uncomfortable, you can try to use belly support belt to ease the pressure and backpain.