When do tightening become concerning?

I’m 37+1 and today I’ve been experiencing quite a lot of tightenings, more than usual (usually get a few in the day, occasional, hours apart, some days get none). For example today I have had tightenings across my abdomen probably every 10-20mins all afternoon, getting slightly more frequent into the evening but still irregular. Even when I’m resting (sitting back resting on the couch) they still happen. They aren’t painful, but sometimes I feel a slight twinge/shooty pain down the middle or the right side of my uterus (not every time) no back pain either. I don’t know if this is the start of contractions or if it’s just braxton hicks. Baby has been moving a lot today! And occasionally I need to pass gas, so also unsure if they are just gas related lol! So confusing

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I was told to only worry about braxton hicks if you can time them 😅 I’d keep an eye and possibly ring triage/ labour line if you’re concerned x

With my first I had these with increasing intensity about a week up to labour. Probably just your body getting ready. Nothing to worry about until they're 5 mins apart and a min long. I found having a bath often helped and stay as hydrated as you can x

I’ve been exactly the same today I’m also 37 plus 1 I’ve had lots of discharge too (sorry for TMI) don’t know what to do either 🙈 xx

They seem to have stopped now!! 😅

I think its pretty normal for the last few weeks! ♥️

Have a look on Google at prodromal labour, I had this for a week before being induced with my first. It's slightly uncomfortable and a bit more frequent than normal Braxton hicks. Currently going through it as we speak 😂 I've actually started the contractions timer because they're getting more and more uncomfortable since 5pm! Deffo drink plenty of water, dehydration can lead to more Braxton hicks x

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