Where in the abdomen does the pain of contractions occur?

The term "belly" refers to the abdomen. Pain caused by uterine contractions is mainly located in the lower abdomen, especially in the central area of the lower abdomen, corresponding to the position of the uterus.

The pain caused by contractions is primarily concentrated in the lower abdomen, specifically the area above the pubic symphysis and below the navel. However, different pregnant women may experience these sensations differently; some may feel pain throughout the lower abdomen, while others may feel pain in the middle or lower part of the abdomen. These variations are quite common.

The sensation of pain from contractions is distinctly different from ordinary abdominal pain. Contraction pain is characterized by rhythmic, intermittent tightness, with the abdomen tightening and hardening in a regular pattern. As labor progresses, the intervals between contractions gradually shorten, and the intensity of the pain progressively increases. In contrast, regular abdominal pain, such as that caused by gastrointestinal discomfort, may occur in varying locations and present different characteristics, such as distending pain or cramping pain, and typically lacks a clear pattern.

In late pregnancy, if contractions are irregular and mild, they are usually Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor), which are a normal phenomenon as the body prepares for childbirth. However, if the contractions become regular—for instance, occurring every 5–6 minutes, lasting more than 30 seconds each—and are accompanied by symptoms such as vaginal spotting or rupture of membranes, these are likely true labor contractions, indicating that delivery is imminent, and medical attention should be sought promptly.