At What Week Do Contractions Start?

A week number cannot confirm whether labour has begun. The pattern, change in intensity and accompanying symptoms are more useful than the first moment of tightening.

Braxton Hicks contractions are often unpredictable. They may stop after rest, hydration or a change of position, and they do not develop a steadily shortening interval.

Labour contractions usually form a rhythm and continue despite changing activity. Over time, they tend to last longer, feel stronger and arrive closer together. Back pressure, pelvic pressure, a show or leaking fluid may accompany them, but experiences vary.

Time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next, and note how long each one lasts. Record whether the pattern changes after drinking water, emptying your bladder, resting or moving around.

Follow the personalised calling instructions from your maternity service. When you call, share your current week of pregnancy, the contraction pattern, pain level, fetal movement and whether you have bleeding, fluid loss, pressure or backache.

Regular contractions before 37 weeks require prompt maternity advice because preterm labour may present with tightening, pelvic pressure, low back pain, cramps or altered discharge. Call even if the discomfort is mild or you are uncertain.

Get urgent maternity help for vaginal bleeding, a gush or trickle of fluid, severe unremitting pain, fever, faintness, or reduced or changed fetal movement. These signs matter regardless of contraction timing.

Confirm where to go if labour may be starting, who to contact overnight and what information the team wants when you phone. Ask how your plan changes if your waters break, your baby is in a non-head-down position or you have been advised to have a planned caesarean birth.