I woke up yesterday morning with bad cramping which continued all day. I saw the midwife late afternoon who did a sweep (I had one last week but my cervix was closed). She said I was 2cm dilated, 60% effaced and my waters were apparently 'bulging'. I was having irregular contractions which felt just like the Braxton Hicks I have had plus almost constant cramping. I had a bloody show immediately after the sweep and was told to go home and rest, I was in early labour and they expected things to progress quickly.
I managed to sleep last night although the cramps continued and I have alternated between dozing and bouncing on my ball today. My contractions are still really irregular, although I'm not sure exactly what counts as a contraction. Essentially I have constant period type pains, occasional tightening sensations like Braxton Hicks (which I assume are the contractions) and then a third type of pain which is like a very severe period pain. I can talk through it but it is really strong and comes on in a wave. Is this a type of contraction too or is it only a contraction when the muscles tighten and my bump goes hard?
Sorry if it's a silly question but I'm trying to time my contractions and get an idea whether my labour is progressing or not. To be honest I am fed up and bored!