![contraction timing contraction timing](https://bloomlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/irregular-square-300x300.png)
![contraction timing contraction timing](https://bloomlife.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/BASIC-timing-rectangle-1024x580.png)
With false labor contractions, the contractions will likely go away with movement, will feel weak and irregular, and won’t increase in frequency over time. One benefit of timing contractions is that it can help you tell the difference between true and false labor contractions. Your belly tightens during contractions, and then relaxes and becomes softer in between. It can also sometimes feel like pressure in your back or pelvis, similar to menstrual cramps. What Are Contractions?Īs labor begins, your cervix starts to dilate (open) and efface (thin out), and the muscles around your uterus contract to help your baby move down and through the birth canal.Ī contraction feels like a cramping or tightening that begins in your back and moves around to the front of your body.
#CONTRACTION TIMING HOW TO#
Read on to find out what a contraction actually is, how to easily time your contractions, and when it’s time to head to the hospital. Timing your contractions can also help you figure out whether you are actually in labor, or simply experiencing Braxton Hicks “practice” contractions. Having this information can also help your healthcare provider assess how far along you are, and whether it’s time to head into the hospital or birthing center.
![contraction timing contraction timing](https://i.imgur.com/10U7nhv.png)
Once you start experiencing contractions, timing them can help indicate how your labor is progressing.