First Baby - Contraction Question

alisds

So this is my first, I've never felt a contraction before.  I'm 37 weeks and I don't think I've really had Braxton Hicks either.  I mean, I've heard two stories on what they feel like, 1) period cramps and 2) your belly tenses up for a bit.  I think I've felt the tensing up for a bit one (with no pain).  

Anyways, yesterday my dr. asked me if I have had any contractions yet and I was like "Ugh, no?"  I have no idea, which I guess means I'm just as well to say no since I will know when the real thing comes along right?

Then, this afternoon I did feel a little discomfort in my belly... it's hard to explain. Almost like a lower subtle pain.  And then I felt some pressure in my butt.  And then pressure in my vagina, kind of like I was getting kicked down there, from the inside.  Were those contactions?!

I sound so confused, whatever tips I can get will help I'm sure! 

gekeler6

To me BH don't hurt, but I do feel pressure from them.  Your tummy gets really hard and feels like the baby is pushing out all over.  Real contractions are constant and timely and starts off without the discomfort.  It slowly gets more intense and you will start to feel cramping with each one.  You will know because you will feel a pattern.  I didn't know what a BH was until I mentioned the feeling I was having to my mother when I was a FTM, she felt my belly and told me it was BH.  They were sporatic and not painful. 

The pressure in your butt and vagina is most likely the baby stretching there.  I get that so much with this little one, it can be painful and def makes you wonder what is going on down there. 

shunt1983

some women cant feel the early ones, I cant so well.  Each labor they feel a little different.  lightening probably babys head or baby hitting you. Pressure in the butt probably bones moving.  contractions feel like pressure like youre really bloated or somethig, if you walk alot you should get one.