Medically reviewed by Andrea L. Braden, MD Key Takeaways Labor contractions can feel like intense cramps or pressure.Braxton-Hicks contractions do not follow a pattern and may stop with activity.Early ...

If your contractions come regularly every 5 to 10 minutes, it's time to call your doctor. Watch for signs like your water breaking or bloody vaginal discharge, which indicate labor might be starting.

Dilation and effacement are your body's way of getting ready for labor – your cervix gradually opens (dilates) and thins out (effaces) to help your baby make that grand entrance. This process can ...

Braxton Hicks contractions happen with all pregnancies to help your body prepare for labor. They might feel like a mild muscle spasm, tightening in your baby bump, or menstrual cramps. Not sure if you ...

You may have a lot of questions about how to know you're actually in labor. Here's everything pregnant people need to know. In the movies, pregnant people are often shown looking down (surprised!) to ...

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have developed new imaging technology that can produce 3D maps showing the magnitude and distribution of uterine contractions in ...

Anny Francisco had quite the health scare. The 90 Day Fiance star is pregnant with her and Robert Springs’ third child. As Monsters and Critics reported, Robert announced the happy news in June. Anny ...

Labor moves fast, and decisions stack up. Here is a calm, clear plan from a hospital-seasoned midwife to help you speak up, ...

There's a big learning curve when it comes to pregnancy. For many expecting parents, just thinking about contractions can be nerve-wracking because they are associated with pain and the start of labor ...