What Does a Contraction Feel Like at 37 Weeks?

At 37 weeks, contractions can feel like tightening or cramping in the lower abdomen, lower back, or pelvis, often resembling menstrual cramps or a strong pressure that comes and goes. These contractions could be Braxton Hicks or early labor signs.

What Does a Contraction Feel Like at 37 Weeks? | Recognizing Early Labor and Braxton Hicks

At 37 weeks, your body is preparing for the arrival of your baby, and one of the most important signs that labor might be near is contractions. I remember when I was 37 weeks pregnant, I began to wonder with every twinge and cramp, “Is this it?” So, what does a contraction feel like at 37 weeks? Typically, contractions can feel like strong menstrual cramps, a tightening sensation across your belly, or pressure in your lower back. These sensations might be mild or more intense, depending on whether you’re experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or early labor. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of contractions, how to differentiate between false and real labor, and when to call your doctor.

Types of Contractions at 37 Weeks: What You Need to Know

At 37 weeks pregnant, you might experience a range of sensations, some of which could be early labor contractions, while others are just your body preparing for labor. It’s important to understand the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions.

1. Braxton Hicks Contractions (False Labor)

Braxton Hicks contractions are also known as “practice contractions” because they help your body prepare for labor, but they don’t lead to actual labor. These contractions are usually irregular, don’t increase in intensity, and often go away when you change positions.

What They Feel Like: Braxton Hicks contractions typically feel like a tightening or hardening of your belly. They can be uncomfortable but are usually not painful. Many women describe them as a mild cramping sensation or a feeling of pressure.
When They Occur: Braxton Hicks contractions can happen throughout the third trimester, and it’s common to feel them more frequently as you get closer to your due date.
Tip: If you experience Braxton Hicks contractions, try changing positions, drinking water, or resting. These contractions usually stop on their own.

2. True Labor Contractions (Early Labor)

True labor contractions, on the other hand, indicate that labor is starting. These contractions become stronger, more regular, and closer together as labor progresses. Unlike Braxton Hicks, true labor contractions will not go away with rest or movement.

What They Feel Like: Early labor contractions often feel like menstrual cramps or a tightening sensation that starts in the lower abdomen and radiates to the lower back or pelvis. The sensation intensifies over time and can feel like a wave of pressure or pain that starts and peaks before fading.
When They Occur: True labor contractions typically start at irregular intervals but become more frequent, lasting longer and growing stronger over time.

Table 1: Differences Between Braxton Hicks and True Labor Contractions

Type of Contraction	What They Feel Like	Frequency and Intensity	How to Manage It
Braxton Hicks (False Labor)	Tightening or hardening of the belly, mild cramps	Irregular, do not increase in intensity	Change positions, hydrate, or rest
True Labor Contractions	Intense cramping, tightening, or back pain	Regular, become stronger and closer together	Time the contractions, prepare for labor

3. Back Labor

Some women experience what’s known as back labor, where the contractions cause intense lower back pain rather than abdominal cramping. Back labor occurs when the baby is in a posterior position (facing the mother’s abdomen) and presses on the lower back.

What It Feels Like: Back labor can feel like severe, persistent pain in the lower back that worsens during contractions. The pain may radiate around to the front of the abdomen but remains concentrated in the back.
When It Occurs: Back labor can happen at any time during labor, but it’s more common if the baby is positioned face-up (occiput posterior) in the uterus.
Tip: Changing positions, such as getting on your hands and knees or using a birthing ball, may help relieve the pressure and reduce back labor pain.

How to Tell If You’re in Labor at 37 Weeks

One of the most challenging aspects of pregnancy is knowing when labor has truly begun, especially if you’re experiencing frequent Braxton Hicks contractions. There are several signs you can look for to determine if you’re in true labor.

1. Timing and Regularity of Contractions

One of the clearest signs that you’re in labor is the regularity of your contractions. True labor contractions come at regular intervals, grow closer together, and last longer as time goes on.

Tip: Time your contractions by noting the start and end of each one, and how far apart they are. If they are consistently coming every 5 to 10 minutes and lasting 30 to 60 seconds, you may be in early labor.

2. Increasing Intensity

True labor contractions increase in intensity over time. They will start off feeling mild but grow progressively stronger and more painful. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, they won’t ease up with rest or changes in position.

Tip: If your contractions are getting stronger and more painful over time, it’s a sign that labor is progressing. Be sure to contact your healthcare provider if you think you’re in labor.

3. Water Breaking

For some women, labor begins when the amniotic sac ruptures, commonly referred to as your “water breaking.” This can happen as a sudden gush or a slow trickle of fluid. Once your water breaks, labor typically follows shortly after, if it hasn’t already begun.

Tip: If you think your water has broken, call your doctor immediately. It’s important to keep track of the color, odor, and timing of the fluid, as this can provide important information to your healthcare team.

Table 2: Signs of True Labor at 37 Weeks

Sign of Labor	Description	What to Do
Regular, Increasing Contractions	Contractions come regularly and grow stronger	Time the contractions, prepare to head to the hospital
Water Breaking	Amniotic fluid leaks or gushes out	Contact your doctor or midwife immediately
Lower Back Pain	Intense back pain that doesn’t ease with movement	Try changing positions, contact your doctor

How to Manage Contractions at 37 Weeks

Managing contractions can be challenging, especially if you’re not sure whether you’re in true labor. Whether you’re dealing with Braxton Hicks or early labor, there are several ways to manage the discomfort and help your body prepare for delivery.

1. Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques

One of the best ways to manage contractions is through deep breathing exercises. Breathing techniques help calm your mind, relax your muscles, and provide you with a sense of control during contractions.

How to Do It: Take slow, deep breaths through your nose, and exhale gently through your mouth. Focus on relaxing your body and breathing rhythmically as the contraction builds and releases.
Tip: Practicing relaxation techniques throughout pregnancy can prepare you for labor, helping you stay calm and centered during intense contractions.

2. Change Positions or Move Around

Changing positions or moving around can help alleviate the discomfort of contractions. Some positions may relieve pressure on your back or pelvis, making the contractions more bearable.

How to Do It: Try walking around, sitting on a birthing ball, or getting on your hands and knees. Swaying or rocking your hips can also help relieve pain and keep your body moving through contractions.
Tip: Movement can encourage your baby to move into the optimal position for birth, reducing the intensity of contractions.

3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Dehydration and hunger can worsen the discomfort of contractions, so it’s important to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the process. Drink water regularly, and eat light, easy-to-digest snacks to keep your energy levels up.

Tip: Try sipping on electrolyte drinks or eating small, protein-rich snacks to maintain your energy without feeling too full or sluggish.

Table 3: Techniques for Managing Contractions at 37 Weeks

Management Technique	How It Helps	Practical Tips
Deep Breathing	Helps calm your mind and relax muscles	Practice rhythmic breathing as contractions build
Changing Positions	Alleviates pressure on back and pelvis	Walk, sway, or sit on a birthing ball
Staying Hydrated	Prevents dehydration, which can worsen contractions	Drink water or electrolyte drinks regularly

When to Call Your Doctor at 37 Weeks

At 37 weeks, your baby is considered full-term, and it’s possible that labor could start at any time. It’s important to know when to call your doctor or midwife, especially if you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing true labor.

1. Contractions Are Regular and Increasing in Intensity

If your contractions are regular, lasting 30 to 60 seconds, and occurring every 5 to 10 minutes, it’s likely that you’re in early labor. It’s time to call your doctor or head to the hospital to be assessed.

Tip: Don’t wait until the contractions become unbearable. Contact your healthcare provider when they are regular and strong, and follow their guidance on when to go to the hospital.

2. Your Water Breaks

If your water breaks, it’s important to contact your doctor immediately, even if you haven’t started feeling contractions. The risk of infection increases once the amniotic sac has ruptured, so your healthcare provider will advise you on the next steps.

Tip: Take note of the time your water breaks and the color of the fluid. Clear fluid is normal, but green or yellow fluid could indicate the presence of meconium (baby’s first stool), which requires immediate medical attention.

3. Decreased Fetal Movement

If you notice a significant decrease in your baby’s movements, it’s important to call your doctor. Reduced fetal movement can sometimes be a sign that your baby is in distress and needs to be monitored.

Tip: Count your baby’s movements throughout the day. If you notice fewer than 10 movements in two hours, contact your healthcare provider.

FAQs – What Does a Contraction Feel Like at 37 Weeks?

How do contractions feel at 37 weeks?

At 37 weeks, contractions can feel like intense cramping, tightening of the abdomen, or pressure in the lower back and pelvis. Some women describe the sensation as similar to strong menstrual cramps that come and go in waves.

How can I tell if I’m having Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular, don’t increase in intensity, and often go away when you change positions or rest. They feel like a tightening or hardening of the belly rather than painful cramping.

Can contractions start at 37 weeks?

Yes, contractions can start at 37 weeks, as your baby is considered full-term. These contractions could be a sign of early labor or Braxton Hicks contractions as your body prepares for delivery.

What should I do if I feel contractions at 37 weeks?

If you feel contractions at 37 weeks, try timing them to see if they are regular and increasing in intensity. If they are, it’s a sign that you may be in labor, and you should contact your doctor or midwife.

Is it normal to feel back pain with contractions?

Yes, back pain can be a normal part of contractions, especially if you’re experiencing back labor. Back labor occurs when the baby is in a posterior position and can cause intense lower back pain during contractions.

How do I know if I’m in labor at 37 weeks?

You may be in labor if your contractions are regular, becoming stronger, and lasting longer over time. If your water breaks or you experience intense lower back pain, these are also signs that labor has begun.

Can labor start without contractions?

Labor usually starts with contractions, but in some cases, your water may break before contractions begin. If your water breaks without contractions, contact your doctor, as labor will likely follow soon.

What does it mean if my water breaks at 37 weeks?

If your water breaks at 37 weeks, it’s a sign that labor is near. Contact your doctor or midwife right away, as they will likely advise you to go to the hospital for monitoring and preparation for delivery.

Should I call my doctor if I’m unsure about my contractions?

Yes, if you’re unsure whether your contractions are real or Braxton Hicks, it’s always a good idea to call your doctor. They can help assess your symptoms and determine if it’s time to go to the hospital.

When should I go to the hospital for contractions?

You should go to the hospital when your contractions are regular, about 5 to 10 minutes apart, and lasting 30 to 60 seconds. If your water breaks or you experience any other concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Conclusion: What Does a Contraction Feel Like at 37 Weeks?

Recognizing the Signs of Labor and Preparing for Delivery

At 37 weeks, your body is preparing for the arrival of your baby, and understanding what contractions feel like is key to knowing when labor has begun. Contractions may feel like strong menstrual cramps, tightening across the abdomen, or intense back pain. Whether you’re experiencing Braxton Hicks or true labor contractions, it’s important to listen to your body, time your contractions, and call your doctor if you’re unsure. As you prepare for delivery, these signs will guide you through the final stages of pregnancy, ensuring you and your baby are ready for the big day.