what does a contraction feel like

Contractions can feel like a wave that starts at the top of your uterus and moves downwards. The abdomen becomes hard during a contraction and then softens as the contraction ends. They can be accompanied by dull lower back pain, pressure in the pelvis, and pain in the inner thighs. Some women describe them as similar to strong menstrual cramps. True labor contractions become regular over time and come closer together, unlike false labor contractions or Braxton Hicks contractions, which remain irregular. Braxton Hicks contractions feel like mild menstrual cramps and are uncomfortable, but they don't get closer together or increase in intensity over time. They often come with a change of position and stop with rest