Is contraction normal in an ongoing 7 months pregnant woman?

Contractions are normal in an ongoing 7-month pregnancy, but it's essential to distinguish between Braxton-Hicks contractions and true labor contractions.

Braxton-Hicks contractions are irregular, infrequent, and usually mild. They are not painful and are commonly referred to as "practice contractions." These contractions help the body prepare for labor and do not require medical attention.

True labor contractions, on the other hand, are regular, increasingly intense, and closer together. They usually start in the lower abdomen and back and can radiate to the thighs and lower back. If you are experiencing true labor contractions before 37 weeks of pregnancy, it's essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately, as this may indicate preterm labor.

Here are some signs that may indicate true labor contractions:

1. Regularity: True labor contractions occur at regular intervals that become shorter as time progresses.

2. Intensity: Labor contractions are typically more intense than Braxton-Hicks contractions and may cause mild to severe pain.

3. Location: True labor contractions start in the lower abdomen or back and may spread to the thighs and lower back. Braxton-Hicks contractions, on the other hand, are usually felt only in the abdomen.

4. Frequency: True labor contractions increase in frequency and duration over time.

If you are unsure whether the contractions you are experiencing are Braxton-Hicks or true labor contractions, it is best to contact your healthcare provider for evaluation and guidance.