How will i know when i am having contractions

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    when do you start feeling contractions in pregnancy
  • When should you start feeling contractions

    • I can't tell if i'm having contractions or the baby is moving.

    Signs that labour has begun

    Know the signs

    There are several signs that labour might be starting, including:

    • contractions or tightenings
    • a "show", when the plug of mucus from your cervix (entrance to your womb, or uterus) comes away
    • backache
    • an urge to go to the toilet, which is caused by your baby's head pressing on your bowel
    • your waters breaking

    When to contact your midwife or maternity unit

    Call your midwife or maternity unit for guidance if:

    • you think you’re in labour
    • you’re having regular contractions coming every 5 minutes or more often

    You can also call your midwife or maternity unit if you’re unsure or worried about anything.

    Call 111 if you’re unable to contact your midwife or maternity unit.

    Urgent advice: Call your midwife or maternity unit urgently if:

    • your waters break
    • you have vaginal bleeding
    • your baby is moving less than usual
    • you're less than 37 weeks pregnant and think you might be in labour
    • any of your contractions last longer than 2 minutes
    • you're having 6 or more contractions every 10 minutes

    These signs mean you need to see

      when should you start having contractions
      when do you start having contractions