Contractions/labor... I’m lost 😊

Em

First time mom here - 25 weeks pregnant with our rainbow baby. ❤️ I’ve been thinking lately about labor and delivery and just trying to educate myself on signs and symptoms. Although my time is hopefully a little ways away still, and I have no clue how my journey will go (natural, induction, c-section/all of the above), I am just trying to understand it as good as I can.

My question is how do you know when you’re having contractions and how do you know when it’s time to go the the hospital? How close are contractions before you know you are ready? I’ve been told try to labor at home as long as you can but I’m not sure what that even means. I’m just lost overall. Lol any info is much appreciated 🤗