Early contractions typically feel like period pain or cramps in the lower abdomen. Many women describe them as dull, crampy aches that start in the lower back and wrap around to the front. The pain can sometimes extend to the inner thighs or down the legs. In early labor, the contractions may also feel like a squeezing or tightening sensation in the abdomen. At first, these contractions tend to be irregular, short-lasting (around 20-40 seconds), and spaced far apart (up to 30 minutes apart). They may feel like a mild discomfort or a dull ache. As labor progresses, the contractions get stronger, more regular, last longer, and come closer together, eventually lasting about a minute and occurring every 2 to 3 minutes. Some women also experience dull lower back pain that doesn't go away with early contractions. Early contractions can sometimes be mistaken for gas pain, needing to poop, or indigestion. Real labor contractions will not stop with movement, changing position, or rest, unlike Braxton Hicks contractions which are false labor pains and tend to go away or lessen with such changes. Overall, early contractions feel like strong period cramps or menstrual cramps that gradually increase in intensity and frequency as labor progresses. They may also feel like a wave-like tightening that begins in the uterus and moves downward, causing a squeezing or pushing sensation across the abdomen. This combination of sensations helps distinguish them from other types of discomfort during pregnancy. If contractions become regular, strong, and last about 60 seconds every 5 minutes, it's time to contact a healthcare provider or go to the hospital. In summary, early contractions feel like:
- Period-like cramps or lower abdominal cramps
- Dull, persistent lower backache
- Inner thigh pain
- A tightening or squeezing in the womb that comes and goes in waves
- They start off irregular and mild, becoming stronger and more regular over time
- They do not ease with movement or changing position, unlike false contractions (Braxton Hicks)
These descriptions capture the typical early labor contraction experience.
