Best way to describe real contractions to a first time mom?

Raven

Lately I've been having these pains in my stomach and to be honest I can't tell if its the baby moving(cause at this point in the pregnancy it hurts any time she moves) or if im having contractions (real or Braxton hicks) yesterday morning I was dreaming I was having contractions and they were so bad it woke me up and I was having pain (probably about a 5 1/2) then last night I started having the same problem, and no matter what position I changed into it wouldnt go away, even tried drinking sweet tea and going to the bathroom to see if it would help but nope.

I'm 36 weeks 3 days and a first time mom. I know eveyone is different but hopefully one of y'all can explain to me how they feel and maybe its the same for me? I dont know,thank y'all in advance,anything is appreciated😬