What is the definitive guide to contractions according to Hilary Erickson?

Contractions are essentially your uterus squeezing together, similar to a muscle contraction. They can range from feeling "tight" to being very painful. Most people initially feel them as cramps, which then progress.

Contractions can be categorized into two types: true labor contractions and Braxton Hicks contractions. True labor contractions are organized, getting closer together, longer, and more painful, indicating that labor is progressing. On the other hand, Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as practice contractions or false labor, are contractions that don't cause the baby to progress towards birth. They can still be painful, but they don't necessarily mean labor is imminent.

If you're experiencing contractions before 37 weeks, it's considered preterm labor, which can be an issue for the baby. In such cases, you should either go to the hospital or call your healthcare provider for guidance.

Remember, it's important to manage the pain you're experiencing right now, rather than worrying about how it might feel in the future. Take it contraction by contraction, and consider taking a birth class to prepare yourself for what to expect during labor.

Is there anything else you'd like to know about contractions or labor in general?