During pregnancy you will experience what are known as contractions. These feel like a tension that spreads over the stomach, which happens when the uterus, which is a muscle, contracts and is “training” how to push before giving birth.

What are contractions and when do you feel them?
Towards the middle of your pregnancy, it is common to feel contractions, however, you may already feel them from the 15th week of pregnancy. These are also called Braxton Hicks contractions. At this point, the uterus contracts and the contraction is felt from different directions and spreads across the abdomen.

What do contractions feel like?
Contractions usually feel like tension and can sometimes feel uncomfortable, but they should not hurt. The tension often spreads from different parts of the uterus and your stomach may become hard and push outwards due to the tension. Women can experience contractions in different ways.

Contractions come irregularly but can sometimes come a little more frequently. If this feels stressful, it usually helps to lie down and rest for a while. However, some pregnant women can feel contractions, even while resting. Talk to your midwife if you are having trouble or finding the contractions uncomfortable.

Should contractions hurt?
Contractions may feel uncomfortable but should not be painful. If your contractions are painful, contact your midwife.

Is it possible to alleviate contractions?
Yes, partly through rest, but you can also take a warm bath or shower as heat usually feels soothing. You can also put a heating pad on your stomach or in the back. Avoid tight clothes and instead choose something soft and loose fitting that you feel comfortable in.

What is the difference between contractions and labour pains?
Contractions are irregular and usually not painful, while cramps hurt more and come regularly. Cramps are reminiscent of period pains and can be experienced as a radiating pain towards in the lower back. Unlike contractions, cramps usually start from the top of the uterus and spread downwards, and they last longer than contractions do. When contractions become more painful, last longer and are clearly regular, you are entering the latent phase – and soon you’ll be meeting your baby!

If you experience labour pains and think that you are going into labour, you should always call your chosen maternity ward.