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what early contractions feel like ?

### Unpacking Early Contractions: What to Expect

Pregnancy is an incredible journey filled with many changes in the body, both physically and emotionally. One significant sign that your body is preparing for childbirth is the onset of contractions. Understanding what these contractions feel like can help you differentiate between Braxton Hicks contractions (often called “practice contractions”) and true labor. Here’s a detailed look at what early contractions might feel like, based on various sources.

#### The Sensation: Waves and Cramps

**Healthline** describes early contractions as feeling like waves radiating through your core. You may experience a cramp-like sensation, pelvic pressure, a dull backache, or a feeling of hardness in your belly. These feelings can vary from mild to strong, and it’s essential to pay attention to the progression.

**Pampers** and **MedicineNet** echo similar sentiments, emphasizing that true labor contractions are more intense and steady compared to the irregular, less painful Braxton Hicks contractions. They explain that real labor contractions tend to have a pattern, increasing in frequency and intensity. The pain may feel like a tightening in the back that moves forward to the lower abdomen or a sharp, steady pressure.

**Babylist** references the Cleveland Clinic when noting that labor contractions can initially feel like menstrual cramps but gradually intensify into a more severe, persistent discomfort accompanied by pelvic pressure. The sensation is often described as a tightening that starts in the upper abdomen and moves to the bottom, similar to pushing the baby down.

#### True Labor vs. Braxton Hicks

Differentiating true labor from Braxton Hicks contractions is crucial for making informed decisions about when to head to the hospital. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, infrequent, and usually painless. They can be uncomfortable, but they do not increase in intensity or reach a pattern. True labor contractions, however, will become more regular and intense over time. If you’re uncertain whether your contractions are real labor, keep track of their timing and intensity.

#### Experiences of Expectant Mothers

Hearing firsthand accounts from women who have been through the experience can provide valuable insight. **FitMomBirthGeek** compiled a series of personal stories, offering a variety of perspectives on what early contractions feel like. One contributor, Stefanie, describes early labor contractions as worse than any menstrual cramps she has ever experienced, likening it to squeezing and twisting sensations in her stomach.

EllieStartingOver on **Mumsnet** shares her experiences with early labor contractions from her two pregnancies. For her first child, Ellie felt a persistent backache without actual contractions, which turned out to be a sign of early labor. For her second pregnancy, the onset was more like period pains that started mildly and gradually intensified.

A response from Netmums similarly highlights the escalation of contraction intensity. This woman’s early contractions felt like severe period cramps. The pain became progressively worse, making it difficult to sit, and became a reason for seeking medical attention.

#### Premature Labor

It’s worth noting from **What to Expect** that early contractions before 37 weeks of pregnancy indicate early or premature labor. In these cases, it’s crucial to bring it to the attention of your healthcare provider immediately, as you may need to be monitored or treated.

#### Conclusion

Understanding the nature of contractions during pregnancy is vital. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early can help you prepare mentally and physically for the challenges of childbirth. While the intensity and nature of contractions can vary among women, becoming familiar with the descriptions and patterns can offer some peace of mind. As always, trusting your instincts and staying in close communication with your healthcare provider is key to navigating this exciting yet challenging journey.

**Sources:**
– [Healthline](https://www.healthline.com › health › pregnancy › what-do-contractions-feel-like)
– [Pampers](https://www.pampers.com › en-us › pregnancy › giving-birth › article › what-do-contractions-feel-like)
– [MedicineNet](https://www.medicinenet.com › how_do_contractions_feel_when_they_first_start › article.htm)
– [Babylist](https://www.babylist.com › hello-baby › what-do-contractions-feel-like)
– [FitMomBirthGeek](https://fitmombirthgeek.com › what-do-labor-contractions-feel-like)
– [Mumsnet](https://www.mumsnet.com › talk › pregnancy › 4280375-what-did-your-early-labour-contractions-feel-like)
– [Netmums](https://www.netmums.com › coffeehouse › becoming-mum-labour-birth-1193 › labour-birth-256 › 182274-what-do-early-contractions-feel-like.html)
– [What to Expect](https://www.whattoexpect.com › pregnancy › symptoms-and-solutions › labor-contractions.aspx)

Stay tuned for more insights and tips on pregnancy and early labor signs. If you’re expecting, we wish you all the best and hope this journey brings you a healthy and beautiful baby.