Contractions?

Question

I feel really dumb even asking this question, but how do contractions feel? Im a first time mom and I’m 38+5 and everyone keeps asking if I’ve had any contractions and I’m really not sure if i have? I have had tightening in my stomach and the top will get hard but its not really painful so I’m not sure if that’s just the baby curling up? So I’m not sure if I should time or not? So frustrating!  Just ready to have my baby girl!

Answer

Thank you ladies!! I think I’m just getting impatient. She will come when she’s ready!

Answer

TBH Braxton hicks and real contractions feel SO different. For me they were like period cramps on steroids

Answer

The hard stomach with no (or limited) is likely just Braxton Hicks (or, practice contractions).  I'm in the same boat as you.  Haven't had any real contractions yet at 37+5 weeks, but I'm sure they'll come at us with a vengeance!! good luck!

Answer

Those sound like Braxton Hicks. Which is a practice contraction. You can download a contraction counter. Contractions will be painful, they start out feeling like period cramps.
If you start timing them and they are consistent, then you know it’s building up. Sometimes consistency only gets baby into position though and then stops.
The rule is 5-1-1. Contractions occurring every 5 minutes, lasting a minute each, for an hour. There’s also a variation of 3-1-1. 
If you can’t talk or walk through your contractions, it’s time!

Answer

This is going to sound so generic, but you will KNOW when you have that first deal contraction. It will hurt like you've never hurt before. And then it won't stop.

Contractions?

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