#Contraction timing how to

Braxton Hicks contractions got their name from the English doctor who first described them in the 1800s. Many pregnant women feel contractions and think they're going into labor, but it turns out to be a false alarm. Some women also feel an ache or pain in their back.Īs labor progresses, contractions get more intense and painful. Contractions can range from crampy, like a bad period or severe diarrhea cramps, to intensely painful. What Do They Feel Like?Ĭontractions feel like a tightening or pressure in your belly that lasts for 30 to 70 seconds. As your cervix opens, your baby moves into the birth canal and into position for delivery. It also pushes your baby down and out of the uterus. This muscle-flexing softens and widens (dilates) the opening to your uterus, called the cervix. Contractions help you do that.ĭuring each contraction, the muscles in your uterus tighten and then release. Why Do You Get Them?ĭuring labor, you push your baby out of your womb (uterus) and into the world.

#Contraction timing how to

If you learn what contractions feel like and how to tell the real ones from the fakes, you'll keep yourself from heading to the hospital before it's time.

You'll think it's time, only to have your doctor tell you that you're not ready to deliver yet. Your baby might trick you before the main event with a few practice contractions. When you feel those first contractions, you'll know it's 'go' time.

Once you reach week 37 of your pregnancy, it becomes a waiting game until delivery.