contractions

When an expectant mama starts to experience contractions, it's important that she keeps an eye on their duration and frequency — especially if she is nearing her due date. Between the pain and pressure, it can be easy to forget to take note of when the contractions are happening. But like most other things, there's a techie solution! ContractionMaster.com tracks the tightening for you. This free site helps pregnant mothers and their partners time labor contractions so you know if they are progressing and if you should call your OB/GYN.

If there's one thing I am familiar with having been through labor once before, it's contractions! Late in pregnancy, my doctor and the books warned about experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions. But, how does a mama-to-be know when they hit? By definition, they are:

Relatively painless nonrhythmic contractions of the uterus that occur during pregnancy with increasing frequency over time but are not associated with labor.

Some women encounter them early in pregnancy and endure them until the very end. The first time around, I didn't feel them until much later in the game. This go round, however, I have been acutely aware of their presence for quite a while. Luckily, as quick as they come, they go.

When did you start to feel Braxton-Hicks contractions?

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Contractions are a pain in the uterus. And, while it's impossible to understand what they feel like unless you've experienced them, everyone tries.

My mom likens the pain to "little pings," but even after delivering both my kids, I'm not sure I can put the physical sensation into words.

Though I do recall that the moments between them were absolutely euphoric. Concentrating on the lull between the pangs made them all the more bearable.

What do you think contractions feel like? And, how did you deal with them during labor?