Contractions are uterine contractions, which are rhythmic contractions produced by the muscles of the uterus. Uterine contractions are present throughout labor.
Uterine contractions are also the main force that forces the fetus and its appendages out of the uterus. The uterine contractions after labor are rhythmic, symmetrical, and polarized.
At the beginning of labor, the interval between contractions is 5-6 minutes and lasts about 30 seconds. As labor progresses, the interval between contractions is shorter and longer, and after the mouth of the uterus opens fully, the interval between contractions is only 1-2 minutes and lasts 60 seconds. The contractions spread symmetrically from left to right to the lower part of the uterus, and are strongest at the bottom of the uterus, forcing the fetus to descend by uterine contraction until the fetus is delivered.
Paroxysmal regular uterine contractions are characterized by abdominal pain accompanied by hardening of the uterus and dilatation of the cervical canal. There is another type of contraction that is irregular, usually occurring after 28 weeks of pregnancy, which is not accompanied by regular abdominal pain, and there is no recession of the cervical canal or progressive dilatation of the opening of the uterus.
In conclusion, if a pregnant woman has frequent contractions and abdominal pain during labor, she should go to the hospital in time for symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a professional obstetrician.