So much cramping - is real labor near?

I had an appt yesterday and my OB checked me. At 36 weeks 1 day I am 3 cm and 40% effaced, I have had only what feels like period cramps so I’m guessing those were what caused my body to start dilating. Well last night I had stronger period like cramping throughout the night and just general uncomfortableness, could this mean I’m getting close to the real thing?

Also I haven’t timed anything because it doesn’t come and go, the cramping is pretty steady...

Any advice is appreciated, FTM here 😅