She Strengthens

The Miracle of Childbirth: Understanding Contractions

Are you expecting a new addition to your family, or simply curious about the birth process? While contractions may not feel like a miracle when you’re in the midst of them, they play a crucial role in bringing your baby into the world.

What Are Contractions?

Contractions are a natural part of childbirth, triggered by the hormone oxytocin. They cause your uterine muscles to tighten, pushing your baby out of the birth canal. This process can be intense, but it’s essential for a successful delivery.

Common Symptoms of Contractions

If you’re experiencing contractions, you may feel:

• Intense pelvic pressure
• Dull backaches
• Pain radiating from the back to the front of your pelvis
• Tensing and hardening of your belly

Riding the Pain Wave

Contractions come in waves, with the pain peaking and then subsiding. This cycle continues throughout labor, with contractions becoming more frequent and intense as you near delivery.

Types of Contractions

There are several types of contractions to be aware of:

Preterm Contractions

If you’re experiencing contractions before 37 weeks, you may be going into preterm labor. This can be a concern, as premature babies are at a higher risk of health issues.

Braxton-Hicks Contractions

These are practice contractions that prepare your uterus for the real thing. They’re usually mild and irregular, but can be uncomfortable.

Back Labor

If your baby is positioned in a way that puts pressure on your lower back, you may experience back labor. This can be painful, but it’s generally harmless.

Stages of Pregnancy and Contractions

Contractions can occur at various stages of pregnancy, including:

• Early labor: Contractions become more frequent and intense
• Active labor: Contractions are strong and regular, helping to dilate the cervix
• Transition: Contractions are very intense, preparing the body for delivery

When to Call Your Doctor

If you’re experiencing contractions with a pattern, it’s time to call your doctor. Other signs of labor include:

• Water breaking
• Feeling like your baby has dropped lower in your pelvis
• Bloody or unusual vaginal discharge
• Nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea

Other Issues to Look Out For

In addition to contractions, be aware of:

Round Ligament Pain

This occurs when the ligaments that support your uterus stretch too quickly, causing pain.

Indigestion

Hormonal changes and pressure from your baby can cause indigestion, gas, and heartburn.

Timing Contractions

Timing your contractions is crucial to understanding if you’re in labor and how close you are to delivery. Start the clock when a contraction begins, note when the pain peaks, and mark how long it lasts.

What to Do About Early Contractions

If you’re experiencing contractions before 37 weeks, call your doctor immediately. Premature labor can be risky for you and your baby.

Real Moms Share Their Contraction Stories

Hear from real moms about what contractions feel like:

• “The earliest ones feel like period cramps. The active labor contractions feel like a tightening and pressure that requires all of your focus and breath to move through.” —Kiersten
• “It sort of felt like I had to take a massive poo. Like, really bad. But as it got closer to pushing time, the pain got way more intense but also kind of beautiful in a way.” —Maggie
• “I spent my whole life dreading what labor would feel like, and in the end, I think I psyched myself up for nothing. Sure, it was painful, but it felt like super bad period cramps.” —Samantha

Remember

While contractions can be intense, they’re a necessary part of bringing your baby into the world. Stay informed, communicate with your doctor, and remember that it’s all worth it in the end. Congratulations on your new addition!