33 weeks: period like cramps in the middle of the night ?

Caitlin
So I was woken up around 3 am last night feeling like I had bad period cramps. It was enough to wake me up out of a deep sleep and keep me awake for about an hour. I haven't felt anything like this in the last 33 weeks and I also am a first time mom so I don't really know what to expect. I googled obviously and a lot of things said Braxton hicks. I was always led to believe Braxton hicks don't hurt and are accompanied with tightening of the stomach which I haven't felt or experienced. The cramps aren't as intense currently but I still feel dull period like cramps on and off. Has anyone experienced this or have any advice ?