Should contractions last 3 minutes?

Question

This seems a little long to me.....ive been getting some really bad ones that make my back feel like a knife is getting stuck into it. The contractions feel like really bad period cramps but i get them about 20-30 minutes apart. Im wondering if their farther apart because they last for so long? they can be anywhere from 1 minute up to 5 minutes :( Should i keep timing them? Im 39 weeks on wednesday.....i also have alot of rectal and vaginal pressure and havent been very hungry at all today

Answer 1

u shud b talking to a doc or midwife

Answer 2

Every pregnancy is different so you should call l&d if that's who you feel comfortable calling.  But, I would say that you are in labor.  I had back labor and what you are describing sounds like how I felt.  And  contractions can last  for several minutes.  Relax, it sounds like you're having a baby soon.  Congradulations.

Answer 3

You should be timing them anytime you're having contractions.

Answer 4

The long contractions are normal... more like brackston hicks. As you progress the should get shorter and more intense... it is the intensity that you need to look out for... if it is consistantly building and they are getting closer, shorter and harder then you are going into labour.

Answer 5

Yes always time your contractions!! The knife pain in your back could be that your have back labor, which is very very painful! I can't answer the length of the contractions though, but I would call the labor and delivery department and they could tell you to yes come in or no your fine! They are there to answer all your questions too.

Always call before you go in anyways so they can get your chart and file ready! ZBut call them if you have questions!!