When you reach the last few weeks of pregnancy, everyone is eagerly waiting for the baby to arrive. During this time, when you suddenly feel a stomach ache, you may think, "Okay, now is the time." But sometimes when you go to the hospital, the doctor will say, "It's not the right time yet, this is not real pain." This can be a bit of a worry. Therefore, if you know the difference between real pain and fake pain, you can stop worrying unnecessarily and rushing to the hospital early.
Simply put, what are these contractions?
Contractions are the contractions of the muscles in your uterus, which tighten and then relax. Think of it like squeezing and releasing the muscles in your hand. This is to prepare the way for your baby to come into the world. As your uterus tightens, the cervix (the opening of your uterus) gradually softens and opens. This pushing forces the baby down into the birth canal. This is the natural process of childbirth.
How does this pain feel in your body?
Childbirth is a different experience for each person. But it usually feels like a tightening or pressure in the abdomen. For some, it feels like a period pain that gets worse . For others, it may feel like a stomach ache.
The pain becomes more intense and painful as labor approaches, compared to when it first started. Sometimes you may not even be able to speak during the pain. Although this pain is mainly felt in the abdomen, it can sometimes spread to the lower back and legs.
Back Contractions
Some mothers experience lower back pain more than abdominal pain during labor. This can be felt during labor or between contractions. Doctors believe that the main reason for this is that the back of the baby's head is pressing hard on your back and spine. In addition, factors such as your low birth weight, the baby's weight, and the shape of your pelvis can also affect this.
Are all contractions a sign of the baby coming? Let's talk about Braxton Hicks!
Many pregnant women think that when they feel pain, they are about to have their baby. But it could be a "false contraction". In medical terms, we call this `Braxton Hicks contractions`. It is like a ``rehearsal'' before childbirth. These false contractions are just a way for your cervix to soften a little and prepare your body for the big day.
These ` Braxton Hicks` contractions can sometimes feel like real labor, or they can just feel like regular period pain. They can occur at any time during pregnancy, but they are most common in the last trimester. That's why it can be difficult to tell if they are real or fake.
The most important thing is that there is no need to worry about these Braxton Hicks contractions. This is a normal occurrence during pregnancy.
How do you differentiate between real pain and Braxton Hicks pain?
There are some clear differences between these two types of pain, and knowing these will help you a lot.
| Characteristic | Real Labor | Braxton Hicks (false contractions) |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | They come closer together over time, following a specific pattern. (e.g., once every 10 minutes at first, then every 5 minutes later) | There is no pattern. It comes and goes randomly. |
| Intensity | Over time, the pain gradually increases and becomes stronger. | The pain doesn't increase. It stays the same or decreases. |
| The place where the pain is felt | It often spreads throughout the abdomen and can also be felt in the lower back. | It is often limited to one area of the stomach. |
| Response to activities | The pain doesn't stop even if you change your position, walk, or rest. | The pain goes away when you change position, walk, or rest for a while. |
If you can't figure out what's causing your pain, try changing your position, taking a walk, or drinking a glass of water. Sometimes, Braxton Hicks contractions can be caused by dehydration.
When should I go to the hospital?
It's important to talk to your doctor about this in advance and get advice on when to come to the hospital. But in general, there are a few signs that you can look for to know if you're really ready to give birth.
We usually use something called the "5-1-1" rule. That is:
- If the pain comes every 5 minutes ,
- If one pain lasts at least one minute (60 seconds) ,
- If this pattern continues for at least an hour ,
...It's time for you to go to the hospital.
If you have these symptoms, call your doctor or go to the hospital immediately:
- If there is vaginal bleeding .
- If the bag of water breaks and a liquid like water starts leaking .
- If you notice a change in your baby's movements (e.g., fewer than 10 movements in two hours).
- If you are less than 37 weeks pregnant and have a specific pattern of pain (this could be a sign of premature labor).
Does this kind of pain still occur after childbirth?
Yes. In the first few days after having your baby, you may feel this pain again. Especially when breastfeeding. This is completely normal. This is because the uterus, which grew during pregnancy, is shrinking back to its original size. So don't worry about it.
Your support person (husband, family member, or friend) can help you at this time. They can provide you with great relief by helping you find a comfortable position and massaging your back.
Take-Home Message
- Contractions during pregnancy are a natural process that prepares the way for the baby to come into this world.
- Distinguish between "real labor" and "Braxton Hicks" contractions. Real labor comes closer together over time, gets more intense, and doesn't stop with changes in position.
- When you start having pain, write down when it starts and how long it lasts.
- Remember the "5-1-1" rule (pain that lasts for one minute, occurs every 5 minutes, and lasts for one hour). That's the best time to go to the hospital.
- If you are bleeding, your water breaks, or your baby is not moving much, call your doctor immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- If in any doubt, seek medical advice. The most important thing is to be informed and not panic.
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