Can anyone help? How long and frequent should contractions be before phoning the hospital?

[07mumstheword]

can anyone help ? I've been getting period type pains all day and they have become more persistant and sometimes more painful.
Last labour was a bit like this for the daytime then at 6-7pm waters broke and DD was born 10.38.
I've forgotten what contractions are like and what they should be like before phoning the hospital? (I was admitted to hospital with pre-eclampsia last time so constantly monitored) Is there a rule of thumb with regards to how often and how long they should be?
Also it feels like they are pushing into my bowels too so is that another sign?

Hey, 07.
You can phone the hospital whenever you want. They can advise you on when to come in. I called when mine had been going for about an hour, to let them know I might make an appearance soon!
Good luck!

yes just phone and talk to them. they will advise on when/ how often to keep in touch with them

phone now and describe how you are and they will advise you to go now or wait a while, good luck

my contractions were irregular with ds but i had placenta previa so i was asked to come in..he was delivered by section that next morning
hope all is well for you and your baby

Thanks for your help

I've posted my birth story in the birth announcements for any of you who are interested.