How to Time Contractions
Recognize what a contraction feels like., Start timing when you feel a few in a row.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Recognize what a contraction feels like.
Many women describe contractions as a pain that begins in the lower back and moves in a wavelike fashion toward the abdomen.
The feeling is described as being akin to menstrual cramps or constipation.
With each contraction, the pain is mild at first, it builds to a peak, and then it subsides.
During contractions, the abdomen becomes rigid.
For some women, the pain stays in the lower back area.
Contractions feel a little different for everyone.
At the beginning of labor, most contractions last from 60
- 90 seconds and occur every 15 to 20 minutes.
They decrease in duration and increase in frequency as labor draws closer. -
Step 2: Start timing when you feel a few in a row.
It's common to feel a contraction every now and then in the months leading up to labor.
Your body is "practicing" for the main event, and it's usually no cause for alarm.
When your due date approaches and you feel several contractions that seem to be following a regular pattern, time them so you can determine whether you're going into labor.
Detailed Guide
Many women describe contractions as a pain that begins in the lower back and moves in a wavelike fashion toward the abdomen.
The feeling is described as being akin to menstrual cramps or constipation.
With each contraction, the pain is mild at first, it builds to a peak, and then it subsides.
During contractions, the abdomen becomes rigid.
For some women, the pain stays in the lower back area.
Contractions feel a little different for everyone.
At the beginning of labor, most contractions last from 60
- 90 seconds and occur every 15 to 20 minutes.
They decrease in duration and increase in frequency as labor draws closer.
It's common to feel a contraction every now and then in the months leading up to labor.
Your body is "practicing" for the main event, and it's usually no cause for alarm.
When your due date approaches and you feel several contractions that seem to be following a regular pattern, time them so you can determine whether you're going into labor.
About the Author
Joseph Reynolds
Brings years of experience writing about hobbies and related subjects.
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