what do contractions feel like

Contractions can feel different for each person, and the sensation may vary from one pregnancy to the next. Typically, real labor contractions feel like a pain or pressure that starts in the back and moves to the front of the lower abdomen. Some women describe them as strong menstrual cramps, while others may feel them as gastrointestinal discomfort, heavy menstrual cramps, or lower abdominal pressure. The pain can also be accompanied by discomfort in the back, sides, and thighs. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, true labor contractions steadily increase in intensity over time and are not relieved by a change in position. During a contraction, the abdomen becomes hard, and then softens as the contraction ends. As labor progresses, contractions become more frequent, intense, and longer, lasting around 40 to 60 seconds each. They also come closer together, with active labor contractions occurring about 3 to 4 minutes apart. Braxton Hicks contractions, on the other hand, are irregular in frequency, less intense, and usually go away if you change positions. They can feel like mild menstrual cramps and are uncomfortable, but not painful. They often come with a change of position and stop with rest