What are contractions?

Contractions refer to the process that occurs during labor when the muscles of the uterus tighten and then relax. This muscle activity is crucial for the progression of labor, as it helps to dilate the cervix and push the baby down the birth canal. The rhythmic pattern of tightening and relaxing creates the pressure necessary to facilitate childbirth.

While the opening of the cervix during labor and the breaking of the amniotic sac are important aspects of the labor process, they do not define what contractions are. Additionally, feeling the baby's movements is a separate experience and not related to the concept of contractions. Understanding that contractions are specifically the actions of the uterus muscles provides clarity on their role in childbirth.