What Are Contractions?
Learn what contractions are, what they can feel like, how Braxton Hicks differ from labor contractions, and when to start timing them.
What are contractions?
Contractions are waves of tightening and relaxing in the uterus. Some contractions are practice contractions. During labor, contractions help the cervix change and the baby move down.
What do contractions feel like?
They can feel like belly tightening, period-like cramps, lower back pressure, pelvic pressure, or waves that build and fade. The feeling can vary from person to person.
Are all contractions labor contractions?
No. Some contractions are practice contractions, often called Braxton Hicks. Labor contractions usually become more regular, closer together, longer, and stronger over time.
What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
Braxton Hicks are practice contractions. They are often irregular and may ease with rest, hydration, or changing position. They usually do not build into a steady pattern.
How do I know if contractions are real?
Labor contractions often become more regular, closer together, longer, and stronger over time. If you are unsure or worried, call your provider.
When should I start timing contractions?
Start timing when contractions repeat and you want to understand the pattern. Timing can help you explain duration, interval, and regularity if you call your provider.
How do I time contractions correctly?
Start timing when the tightening begins and stop when it relaxes. Measure interval from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.
Can contractions stop and start again?
Yes. Early or practice contractions can come and go. If contractions become regular, stronger, closer together, or concerning, call your provider.
When should I call my provider?
Call if your water breaks, you have bleeding, baby is moving less than usual, you are under 37 weeks, contractions are unusually frequent or concerning, or something feels wrong.