1. Stages of Pregnancy Slideshow Pictures
2. Early Pregnancy Symptoms
3. Conception (Egg to Embryo) Slideshow Pictures

In this Article

• What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
• What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like?
• What do true labor contractions feel like?
• What are symptoms of false labor?
• I sometimes have pain on the side of my stomach. Is this true labor?
• I hate to bother my health care provider with "false alarms." When should I call?
• Find a local Obstetrician-Gynecologist in your town
• Braxton Hicks Contractions Index

Probably not. Sharp, shooting pains on either side of your abdomen (called round ligament pain) that travel into the groin may come from stretching ligaments that support your growing uterus.

To ease the discomfort in your sides:

• Try changing your position or activity.
• Make sure you are drinking enough fluids (at least six to eight glasses of water per day).
• Try to rest.

Your health care provider is available any time to answer questions and to ease concerns about whether or not your contractions are signs of true labor. Don't be afraid to call if you are not sure what it is you are feeling. He or she may ask you some questions to help find out if you are truly in labor. If there's any question at all, it's better to be evaluated by your health care provider.

• It is essential to call your health care provider at any time if you have:
• Any vaginal bleeding.
• Continuous leaking of fluid or wetness, or if your water breaks (can be felt as a "gushing" of fluid).
• Strong contractions every five minutes for an hour.
• Contractions that you are unable to "walk through."
• A noticeable change in your baby's movement or if you feel less than 10 movements every two hours.
• Any symptoms of contractions if you are not yet 37 weeks.

WebMD Medical Reference

SOURCES:
The American Pregnancy Organization.
The March of Dimes.
Reviewed by Kirk Shibley, MD on February 16, 2012

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