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By noticing how long each one lasts and how often they show up, you can get a better idea of where you are in the process.
What Are Contractions?
Contractions are when the muscles of your uterus tighten and then relax, almost like making a fist and then letting go. They play a big role in preparing your body for childbirth.During labour, these contractions help open your cervix (the entrance to your uterus) and guide your baby down the birth canal. They also help reduce bleeding after delivery by compressing blood vessels in your uterus.
Contractions can happen at any point during pregnancy, but you’re more likely to notice them as they get stronger and more regular closer to your due date (around 37 weeks).
What Do Contractions Feel Like?
Contractions don’t feel the same for every woman. For some, they start as a dull ache, and for others, they come as strong pain. Many describe them as wave-like sensations starting at the top of your uterus and moving downwards, or a squeezing feeling across your entire belly.Some people compare it to very strong period cramps or a tightness that spreads to their lower back or even their legs.
But you may not feel any pain at all in between contractions. Those short breaks give you time to rest or even talk with others around you.
True vs. False Contractions: What’s the Difference?
Many first-time parents wonder, "How will I know when I am having contractions?" You need to remember that not every contraction means labour has started.Knowing the difference between true labour contractions and false ones can help you know when it’s time to act.
True Labour Contractions
- Regularly, and get closer together over time (from every 15 minutes to every 5 minutes).
- Last 30 to 70 seconds and get longer as labour progresses.
- Feel stronger and more painful over time, making it hard to walk or talk.
- Don’t stop if you change positions, rest, or walk.
False Contractions (Braxton Hicks)
- Irregular, with no consistent pattern. You might feel one, then nothing for 45 minutes.
- Usually last 20 to 40 seconds and don’t get longer.
- Feel uncomfortable but not as painful, and you can still move or talk through them.
- Often stop if you change positions, rest, or take a warm shower.
Timing Your Contractions
Timing your contractions can help you know if labour has really started. It’s easy to do and helps your doctor understand what’s happening.You can use a watch, a clock, or even a timer app on your phone. Start counting from the moment one contraction begins to the moment the next one starts. Also note how many seconds each contraction lasts. Track this for about an hour to see the pattern.
Stages of Labour and Contractions
Contractions become stronger and more frequent as you move through the stages of labour.Labour has three main stages. But contractions are most relevant in the first stage, which is divided into early and active labour.
Early Labour
- Contractions last 20 to 30 seconds and come every 30 to 60 minutes
- Feel like an ache or mild pressure, similar to period cramps
- May be irregular at first, but becomes more consistent
Active Labour
- Contractions last 40 to 70 seconds and come every 3 to 5 minutes
- Feel intense
- Continue until your cervix is fully dilated to 10 centimetres
Signs of Labour
You might notice signs of true labour as your due date nears.- These signs don’t always mean labour has started, but they’re clues your body is getting ready:
- Baby dropping: Your baby shifts lower into your pelvis. This is called lightening and it can happen weeks or just hours before labour begins.
- Increased vaginal discharge: You might notice a clear, pink, or slightly bloody discharge. It can appear days before or at the start of labour.
- Cervix changes: Your doctor might tell you during a check-up that your cervix is thinning (effacing) or opening (dilating).
- Nesting instinct: You might feel a sudden urge to clean and organise your home for the baby. It’s a common burst of energy, but try not to tire yourself as you’ll need energy for labour!
Managing Contractions at Home
If your contractions are still mild and you feel fine, you can usually stay at home during early labour. This is often safe if you’re near your due date and your pregnancy has been healthy.There are simple things you can try to ease the discomfort at home:
- Take a warm bath or shower to soothe your muscles.
- Ask your partner or a friend to massage your back or shoulders.
- Practice deep, slow breathing to stay calm.
- Use an ice pack or heat pack on your lower back.
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FAQs on Is it That Time Already? Here's What to Expect When Experiencing Contractions
- What should I pack in my hospital bag before labour starts?
Pack essentials like comfortable clothes, toiletries, maternity pads, and baby clothes. Adding a water bottle and phone charger can also make your stay easier. - Can labour start at night while I am sleeping?
Yes, labour can start at any time of the day or night. Many people notice contractions or their water breaking during the evening or at night.