This probably sounds like the dumbest question in the world from a woman who has already birthed twice, but here it is anyway.

DD1 was induced so it wasn't like I was waiting for labour to start naturally. DD2 I knew because my hind waters broke (I'm quick!).

DD1 its all a bit blurry but I don't particularly remember having much braxton hicks and/or pre-labour (are they different things?) DD2 I had enormous amounts of very strong pre-labour from about 36 weeks, with many times thinking this is it after it continued for a couple of hours at regular intervals but then having it fade away. She was born at 41+2.

Over the last three days I've had "something" at night. Not painful just unpleasant IYKWIM - bit like period cramps. Its been really irregular so I haven't been concerned. Today though I've had more and they're a smidge stronger. Still not painful but I can definitely feel them. No regularity to them.

If I wasn't already 3cm dilated I wouldn't have the slightest concern and would just put it down to "warming up". I'm overthinking every niggle and twinge so its got me wondering . . .

How do you know its the real thing? Is it purely regular, or increasing regularity and/or strength or is there some magic way of KNOWING? What I wouldn't give for a flashing neon light that pops up saying "Yep, this is you babe"