How to time contractions??

[SleepForTheWeek]

I'm getting cramps every 7-9 mins, not sure if they are contractions although I had a sweep earlier today and i'm 40+5 so hoping so! They've been going on a good couple hours now.

My question is about the duration of the 'contraction' - do you time it from when the pain begins and ends - or when the stomach begins to tighten and then softens again? The pain I experience starts just after the stomach tightens and lasts around 40secs, but takes a further 10 secs or so for the abdomen to soften again.

Hoping this is the real McCoy!

Ermm if it's only 7-9 minutes between each one you may want to get yourself off to the hospital like now.

Really? With DD they were every 3 mins or so before they took me in - but I can't remember how long they lasted or how I timed them.

I've just been out for a 40 min walk with the dog and although they are still coming I managed to walk and talk(was on the phone) through them so not too intense.

Have had a lot of show so I know things are getting there

You know your body best that's the official guidelines. When I had DD3 mine came and went all day but finally my waters went and then they were still about 5 mins apart but I knew I had to go in as were so intense.

I'm sure you'll know when it's time good luck

Thanks 40 :)

Still 7 mins apart, getting a bit more uncomfortable but not unbearable. MiL on way over so she can look after DD of we go in over the night (which I'm guessing we will)

I went from 6 minutes apart to baby in 35 minutes. Didn't make it to the hospital. Just saying.....

Any news? I had contractions that were 6 minutes apart for hours then they just dropped off! Hospital wouldn't take me until every 3 minutes. Still waiting!

We had a little girl today :)

My contractions never really got any closer than 5 mins apart, and lasting a minute. MW was concerned about the progress, and then BAM 3 strong contractions and she was out!

Congratulations!

Congratulations