[kcoyle]

Okay, I know all about braxton hicks contractions... but I heard that they were only supposed to be "uncomfortable". Well, I am 7 months pregnant, and have for the past few days ben having at least 1 contraction a day. The contraction catches me off guard, goes across my entire stomach, all the way around to my back. It makes my stomach as hard as a rock (like it's clenching) and it lasts for about 15 seconds. I can barely breathe through it. Is this normal? I'm going to my doctor this afternoon, but I wanted to get some opinions first, and see if this is how it feels for everyone else. Who knows, maybe I'm just being a big baby. :)

[alkalineangel]

Mine started around 8 months along, but they were similar to how you described. The key is that they don't come often or are irregular. If they start coming in regular intervals, then it sounds like labor... but yours sounds normal. esp. since they last only a day. But it is good that you are seeing your dr. today so he can make sure everything is dandy.

[buggage]

Oh yes, mine didn't start till later in the pregnancy with my first pregnancy.(about 7 months, like you) this time around they started at 6 months. One contraction a day is nothing to worry about. It is a bit shocking at first, because they pretty much come out of no where. Generally they say if you contractions are 5-10 minutes apart, lasting 30-70 seconds, and coming regularly for 30-60 minutes, that is when you need to call or visit the hospital. Otherwise, contractions are completely normal. They are preparing your body, and "practicing" for true labor when it comes. The farther you get in the pregnancy, the more often they will come. Just watch them and make sure they don't come too close, and too often. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water, as dehydration can bring on contractions. If you are sitting when you get them, get up and walk around. If you are on your feet, sit. Changes in your positions and actions will help them to stop if they are just braxton hicks. Good luck

[nevaehsmomma]

You know a good idea to help you, when I started having them around 7 and 1/2 months I got so paranoid that I used the timer on my cell phone and timed how often they were happening and for how long... then when you have your next dr. apt you can show exactly how they are happening to him/her and get their advice.. good luck!!

[MarMar27]

Hey, well I was in the emergency room not to long ago because I thought something was wrong I was having "round ligament spasms" and it happened again about 2 weeks ago, but it's completely normal your uterus is just making that extra space for your baby... it is said that sometimes these pains can last during your whole pregnancy, and it's said it is more painful especially if it's your first pregnancy