Hi Kristin!

Firstly congratulations on the impending arrival!

Also, if the contractions are coming pretty much 10 mins apart and are lasting that long, i would say you are in ridgy didge labour.

I know that it's mad to say, but basically the best is to try (and i say this with much sympathy!) to rest between them. especially while they are 10 mins apart. by resting i mean even just sitting under a shower, or on the bed/couch etc. i found that helped to keep the energy. also, while you are in this early stage, get the glucose happening for energy (i raided my jelly bean packet from my labour bag pretty early in the piece). i found that when i was in 'active' labour, (ie 2 mins apart) i was too preoccupied to eat, and my energy was getting sapped pretty quick.

Also, if the pain is getting really yuck, try and pee! sometimes, your bladder is full and causing the pain to worsen...

eeepp i hope this helps! and exciting times for you and bubs! not long now!