I have a question... how can u tell if your having real contrractions?? Because I have menstrual like cramps (by the way, I'm in my 35th week, so I think it's normal around this time). They come once in a while, but I dont know if it's just my hips stretching or contractions. I want to get to the hospital in time, not after my water breaks!

well it would be perfectly ok if ur water breaks lol but usually u can tell if they are \"real\" contractions if u feel them ALL over your belly including ur back......and mainly at the top of ur belly.....braxton hicks contractions will mainly stay lower in your belly........you will KNOW when u have real contractions trust me lol and dont rush urself to the hospital if u start feeling contractions bc most of the time the start of the contractions is just \"early\" labor and they will just send you home......with mine i had real contractions for an entire 4 days before i went into labor lol that SUCKED

braxton hicks contractions ( not real ones) dont hurt. but if your having real contractions you'll know because they hurt, and also they will gradually be getting closer and closer together.

I've nvr had contractions so I'm not an expert or anything but from what I've read it ses that ur stomach gets hard and the pain starts in ur lower back and moves around to the stomach. Good luck!
~*~*~layna~*~*~

i would say your probably having braxton hicks contractions i had them off and on for a mos b4 i had my daughter and a couple wks b4 i had my son. you'll know if its true labor b/c they will be about every 5 mins and lasting around 30-45 secs..and yes it does feel like menstral cramps but way stronger! Good luck hun and keep us updated!

You should know contractions if they are real.Its just an instinct.
Could it be Braxton Hicks? Are you getting the tightening of the stomach? I'm 33 weeks and have had some weird pains that i never had with my first. I hope all goes well and baby hides in here a little longer for you