I can safely recognize contractions by this

Contractions can be perceived differently by every woman at the beginning, especially since some subtypes of uterine contractions are distinguished, which differ significantly in their intensity. Common to all contractions is that the uterus contracts and the pregnant woman’s abdomen becomes harder and tense. During pregnancy and after birth, however, these contractions are much less pronounced than in the actual birth pangs.

Some pregnant women experience the uterine contractions similar to cramping pain during menstruation, only with greater intensity. In addition, a relaxation of the uterine muscles following the contractions and an almost complete disappearance of the pain is a typical characteristic of contractions. If the contraction continues over a long period of time without signs of loosening and is accompanied by severe pain and possibly vaginal bleeding, an immediate medical consultation must be arranged.

These symptoms can be an indication of premature placental abruption. One possible, though rather unspecific and often unreliable way of identifying “real” contractions is to bathe in warm water. In labor pains, there is no improvement in the pain and tension in the abdomen, and the contractions may even become stronger.

In the various types of contractions, which are not intended to bring about the actual birth of the child but to perform other tasks, an improvement in the symptoms is often observed due to the warmth of the water. Furthermore, to identify incipient labor pains, the timing and strength of the uterine contractions should be taken into account. If the frequency of the contractions increases, they last longer and longer and become more and more intense, it can be assumed that birth is about to begin. In this case, an early presentation in the delivery room should take place.

Which contractions are there?

There are different types of contractions, which are either associated with pregnancy, birth or the period immediately following childbirth. Among the contractions that already occur during pregnancy are the so-called Alvarez waves, localized uterine contractions, and the Braxton-Hicks contractions, also called exercise contractions. Pre- and down-positioned contractions occur in the time near the forthcoming birth, which serve to correctly position the child in the maternal pelvis.

Among the actual birth pangs with the aim of child development are the opening and expulsion contractions. The postpartum contractions serve to expel the placenta following the birth of the child. The last to occur are after-birth contractions, which in the days after birth support the regression of the uterus to its original size.