anyone experience regular BH contractions before active labor?

Last night I woke up randomly and threw up as well as went #2. I was able to go back to sleep but I've been awake since 4:30am with fairly regular "contractions." I'd describe them as BH contractions with some simultaneous period-like cramping. This has been going on for about 4 hours now with contractions coming roughly every 8 minutes. I certainly don't feel excruciating pain, but definitely noticeable discomfort. I have a midwife appt in 5 hours so hopefully they'll be able to give me some answers, although they don't do cervical checks. 

Anyone have an experience like this during early labor?

I'm 9 days away from my due date, FYI.