i'm sure it's different for everyone but mine felt like my belly was tightening and then it would be rock hard (mostly towards the top). mine weren't painful but they were very uncomfortable and i got them constantly towards the end, especially at night. it would hold for a few minutes and then relax.

mine feel like my stomach gets really heavy and tight and hard. it pushes outward and feels like i'm carrying a boulder in front of me. it doesnt hurt but it's uncomfortable because of the heaviness and tightness.

they are Braxton-Hicks contractions. they are named after doctor John Braxton-Hicks. when you said braxton hick it made me laugh a little 'cause it sounds like some redneck from a place called braxton or something, lol.

well thanks everyone for replying but i just found out what it was that i was feeling... tmi i know but it was diarrhea pains lets just say now i feel much better... i was getting ready to call the doctor.. good thing i didnt that would have been embarassing

Kaerbear- I am so curious now- when did you start feeling these? I am 35.2 weeks and the way you described it is what I always though was just the baby switching sides or something i figured that's what it was. But now you mention it- all of a sudden my stomach feels tight for like, a minute or so. Thats gotta be what is happening.

So yeah it feels heavy and pushes outward. good to know! lol

i wish i could remember when but i don't. probably around 30 - 32 weeks maybe? sorry, i feel like i've been pregnant forever, lol.

Sounds like you are having braxton hicks, as long as you are not have any other symptoms such as discharge, urination pain etc.
I had braxton hicks that were a little painful with my first - they are just practice contractions preparing for the real thing later down the track. Make sure you take notice if they become more frequent or regular and seek help.
If the pain is severe you should see your doc.
Well hope it helped. good luck