Contractions typically feel like a wave of tightening and pressure that starts at the top of the uterus and moves downward across the abdomen. Many describe them as very strong and intense menstrual cramps or a squeezing, pushing sensation across the entire belly
. You may also feel dull lower back pain that doesn’t go away, pelvic pressure, or pain radiating down the inner thighs and legs
. During a contraction, the uterus muscles tighten and the abdomen becomes hard to the touch, then relaxes and softens as the contraction ends
. The pain usually increases steadily with each contraction, often described as cramping, burning, or even stabbing sensations by some women
. Contractions often start mild and irregular but become stronger, longer, and closer together as labor progresses, lasting up to a minute and occurring every 2 to 3 minutes near active labor
. Overall, contractions feel like waves of tightening and pain that build up, peak, and then ease off, helping to open the cervix and push the baby downward during labor
. The sensation may begin as menstrual-like cramps and progress to intense pressure and pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, and back
