When do 'period-like cramps' stop being just that and count as actual contractions?

[YoniMitchell]

Am 38+5 and have been getting pre-labour signs for most of his week. Period-like cramps have started this evening too (pretty gentle at the moment but clearly noticeable), when do I need to start counting/timing?

I realise I may be in this state for a little while yet but otherwise feel totally clueless!

Anyone else in the same boat?

[AmberLeaf]

IME when they start to really bloody hurt!

I'm not pregnant, just going on memory.

[YoniMitchell]

Thanks! I've downloaded a contraction timer app and keep opening/closing it, thinking I'm getting ahead of myself! Good luck with your new arrival MrsJ!

[YoniMitchell]

Not bloody hurting yet, but if this was a 'normal period' I'd probably be moaning and reaching for the medicinal bar of chocolate! I reckon they're about once an hour max right now and only lasting for less than 10 secs. I'm going to be in this limbo for a while, aren't I?!

[ouryve]

About 20 minutes before baby falls into the loo, IME

Good luck.

[tabulahrasa]

When they go from...hmm, that's a bit crampy to Oh shit that hurts!

Not pregnant either - also going on memory.

[Fozziebearmum2be]

I had this for 2 weeks before baby made an appearance. Hate to be vague but you'll know when it's contractions. They didn't feel extra painful to me, just different to cramping as it comes in waves rather than dull ache.

[AmberLeaf]

With my last birth, I had the regular 30-60mins periody type pains all day, then woke about 3am with serious pains.

Good luck, hope it's not too long for you.

[OddFrog]

I went straight from 'ooh that's a bit uncomfortable' to 'oh look, it's a girl'. So you might get lucky! Keep an eye on your timing. Good luck.