Could that weird cramp in your belly be the start of labor—or is it just another bout of indigestion? Maybe it's the real deal, or maybe it's just Braxton Hicks. Can you even have contractions before ...

Labor can feel like a pretty mysterious thing—and when you're a first-time parent, it’s normal to be apprehensive about the whole ordeal. Many people wonder how their body will know it’s time to go ...

The early stages of labor can be filled with a range of emotions for expecting mothers including pain and uncertainty. Preparing yourself for the unexpected — to the best of your ability — and ...

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 ...

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 ...

Poll a group of women about their childbirth experiences, and you'll find that no two stories are identical. Labor can present itself through a wide array of symptoms and with varying levels of ...

Though there are many signs that you’re in labor, one of the most reliable is when you start experiencing consistent contractions. Here’s a guide to what types of contractions you might experience, ...

Braxton Hicks contractions are uterine contractions that start in early pregnancy. Most don't notice them until sometime in the second or third trimester – and some women never notice them at all.

When labor begins, the uterus must coordinate rhythmic, well-timed contractions to deliver the baby safely. While hormones such as progesterone and oxytocin are key contributors to that process, ...