Dumb question maybe but..

What do contractions feel like? This is my first baby and I really have no idea what contractions will feel like or when to be concerned or how to count them? Can you describe what they feel like? I’ve been in a lot of pain especially in my pelvic area and back and it comes and goes almost like terrible period cramps and soreness. And yeah I know I could ask my doctor or go in or call whatever but i’m kinda shy and I really just wanna know if i’m feeling contractions. I know what braxton-hicks are i’ve had those and these feel way different. And I’m not sure how or when to time them either. They arent close apart at the time but it’s definitely been getting more severe over the last few days..