What Do Contractions Feel Like

Labor pains are never a pleasant experience and I am dead sure that soon-to-be mothers would be dreading the labor pain. Even if the result of pregnancy is going to be extremely rewarding, that is, the little bundle of joy, a cuddly baby, mothers would definitely give anything to avoid that hour or so before the actual drama (oops I mean delivery!). Thus, what I mean to say is that it is an extremely exhausting and difficult time for the woman and those close to her. This article will tell you what contractions feel like. Here is quenching your thirst about information on contractions and the whole experience.

What are Contractions?
Contractions refer to the periodic tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscle, which is supposed to be the largest muscle in a woman's body. Pituitary gland releases a hormone called oxytocin, which triggers the uterine tightening. These contractions are explained as cramping sensation, beginning in the back and it moves in the front similar to a wave. The abdomen becomes hard during a contraction and during childbirth. Labor is initiated and carried ahead through these contractions. What happens is that these contractions lead the upper part of the uterus to thicken and tighten. Simultaneously, the cervix and the lower part of the uterus stretch and relax. This helps the baby move from the inner part of the uterus into the birth canal, gearing up for the delivery. Sounds scary, but there is a consolation. These would not be bothering you continuously for all the time through the labor. They will take a break, definitely, like they would be experienced for around a minute every 5 minutes or so. That is variable and the woman who is pregnant has to observe it.

What Exactly Do Contractions Feel Like?
Some women have described contractions in preterm labor as akin to menstrual cramps or stomach pain due to gas. However, these could be confused with other problems like intestinal disorders or flu symptoms. It will mostly feel like a wave, gaining intensity till it reaches a certain point. It will then slowly die down. But the pattern of the wave starting from the back and then progressing in the front may not be felt by all in the same manner. As the body goes further into labor, it is very much possible that the period of break between 2 contractions is short. The peaks will be sooner and longer in that case, in a contraction. However, contractions which are persistent, with no rhythm and are 5 to 7 minute apart, should not be ignored and a gynecologist or a mid wife should be immediately informed.

Contractions have to be taken as a positive sign, because it is getting you all the more closer to the birth of your baby. These contractions are pushing your baby downward. Therefore instead of resisting or going against this natural process, go along with it and stay as relaxed as possible. This is definitely easier said than done, but you have to try for your own good. You would have to deal with this for around 14 to 15 hours, if you are pregnant for the first time. Don't worry, this would not be the case the second time you get pregnant! The time would be shorter the next time.

For some women it might have been a 'hell of an experience', but I am sure after seeing their baby they must have felt it was worth it!