A contraction is a tightening of the uterus that helps the body prepare for and carry out childbirth. Contractions work in waves: the uterus tenses, holds the tension for a while, and then releases again. It's completely normal to be unsure about what you're feeling, especially if it's your first time. The goal here is to give you practical guidelines so you can act calmly and confidently.
What are contractions, and what happens in the body?
Contractions are the rhythmic work of the uterus that can gradually ripen and open the cervix and help the baby descend into the pelvis. You may experience contractions differently: some feel them mostly in the abdomen, others in the lower back, or as a downward pressure.
How a contraction might feel
Many describe contractions as increasing cramps that come and go, often with a clear pause in between. The pause is important because it allows you to rest, breathe, and find a position that helps.
How do contractions typically feel?
Contractions often come as a wave that builds up, peaks, and then subsides. Initially, you might be able to talk through them, but if labor is progressing, they usually become gradually more demanding.
Practical tip for "checking in" with your contractions
Try to notice three things: how often they come, how long they last, and if they get stronger over time. Write it down in a note on your phone. This makes it easier to describe to a midwife if you call.
Braxton Hicks vs. true labor contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions (often called practice contractions) are common during pregnancy and can feel like a tightening of the abdomen. They are typically irregular and can subside if you rest, change position, or drink something. True labor contractions are often more regular and tend to increase in strength and frequency.
A calm benchmark
If you're in doubt, it's not a sign that you "should know." Many need to observe the pattern for a while before it makes sense.
Contraction interval and signs that labor is starting
A useful sign is whether contractions form a pattern. Interval means the time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. If contractions become more regular and you find yourself needing to concentrate more on breathing through them, it could indicate that your body is in labor.
What you can do at home in the meantime
- Drink and eat lightly, if you can.
- Try warmth (e.g., a bath) or a position with back support.
- Ensure breaks and calm between contractions.
When to call the labor ward?
Recommendations can vary, so always follow your maternity unit's advice. Typically, contact the labor ward if you have regular contractions, if your waters break, if you bleed like a menstrual period, if you develop a fever, feel significantly unwell, or if you experience reduced fetal movements. If you are uneasy, you are welcome to call, even if you are "just" in doubt.
It can be good to have ready
When you call, it helps to be able to state: how far along you are, when contractions started, approximate interval and duration, and whether your water has broken.
Relevant products that can provide support before and after contractions
When the body is working, practical comfort can make it easier to relax during breaks. Some pregnant women benefit from support for the abdomen and lower back in the last part of pregnancy, for example, Maternity Support Belt or the specific Maternity Support Belt.
After birth, you may need soft, simple care in the first few days. Here, some choose a complete solution like the New Mum Care Pack, which is designed for the postpartum period.
And because rest means a lot, especially when the body is preparing, a soft nursing and sleep bra without underwire can be nice to have ready, for example, the Sleeping Nursing Bra.