How do you know it’s contractions?

For the past 2 days I’ve been having cramps in my lower belly. Every 15 min roughly. Idk if it’s gas, poop cramps, or contractions. I feel like I have to go (lots of pressure) but when I do it doesn’t ease the cramping. I’m 35+4 so it’s still a little early. Nothing helps the cramping. Not heating pads, ice, walking, laying down. I do notice they’re worse after doing something. They are not moving closer together but they are steadily picking up intensity. What is happening?

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Sounds like prodromal labor maybe? (False labor but not Braxton hicks)

It’s currently what I’m dealing with; the contractions show up on my NSTs, (each were about 1min & 30-45 seconds) doctor has me coming in every week for nsts and said if he continues to see contractions on the nsts he might have me come in twice a week for them. Mine consist of back pain, lots of pressure & pain in the vaginal - rectal area ect.

@Haili the back pain!! Yes 1000% I have that too. Are they showing up as Braxton hicks or actual contractions? If they continue what’re they gonna do?

Doctor confirmed they are contractions, I have an ultrasound coming up too…so they will probably go ahead and check my cervix, as long as I’m not dilating & the baby is responding well to them it’s not an issue. I’ll be 35 weeks +2 days at my next appointment. Prodromal labor can last weeks. I’ve only been a bit worried because of other “symptoms” I’ve been having - surge of energy (lots of nesting lol.. I end up being in quite a bit of pain for days after) - running stomach - lightening - INCREASED urination (yes it needs to be in all caps because holy crappppp) - losing weight (slowly nothing crazy just strange) - feeling more flexible again instead of the normal stiffness that comes with pregnancy

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