37 weeks and 3 days. What am I feeling?

I've been having a lot of pressure for several weeks now due to baby being so low. 3 weeks ago I was 50% effaced but not dilated. Today the pressure is so much worse I'm not having contractions so I don't want to call but this pressure and burning I almost can't handle it any more. Is this a sign labor is coming or near what should I do. Bean you be in labor without contractions??  Early I was at supermarket and it was awful along with period like cramps but those cramps have slowed down. Being a FTM you just don't know what to expect and what is normal ...