What do contractions feel like?

[Kaity44]

I am 37 weeks and 4 days today. I get a lot of braxton hicks. But it is weird, the bottom of my stomach is pretty soft but the top is hard and almost feel like a lump like the baby. But when it's over lump goes away. Anyone else have braxton hicks like that?

I also these pains right above my pubic region like someone is stabbing me. Is that a real contraction? I know they are different for everybody so I'm so confused. My doc two days ago said I was a centimeter dilated. I hear you can't dilate without contractions. And idk if I'm having them! I'm a first time mom so this is all new territory lol

[peanutbutteroreo]

Well you'll know when to go to the hospital. Even if you have a high pain tolerance you'll know. Ive never experienced pain that comes close to contractions. I couldn't get the epidural fast enough.

[Kaity44]

I'm just worried cause I have a way high pain tolerance so I fear I won't feel when I'm really having them.

[peanutbutteroreo]

Yeah I had braxton hicks like that. Its normal. A contraction will feel like the worst period cramp you've ever felt. Trust me you'll know when your having them.

[Kaity44]

Bump