Simply put, a contraction is the coordinated movement of the muscle fibres within the uterus/womb. Throughout your pregnancy, your uterus prepares for birth with Braxton Hicks practice contractions. You may or may not notice your practice contractions (Braxton Hicks).

"One cannot actively 'help' a woman to give birth naturally. The goal is to avoid disturbing her unnecessarily"  - Michel Odent, obstetrician

The middle layer of your uterus is pure muscle; it is strong enough to birth your baby all by itself, even in a coma. A contraction is a muscular movement lasting between 45 - 90 seconds during active labour. This is triggered by oxytocin (the hormone of love, labour and lactation).

Oxytocin is released when you feel safe, secure, warm and loved - these conditions are required for birth to begin and progress effectively.

Oxytocin also

1. increases prostaglandin hormone production: to soften, thin and open the cervix (neck of the womb/uterus)
2. gradually causes your body to flood with beta-endorphins: to increase comfort and help you 'zone out'. 

Here are a few ideas on how to help your oxytocin flow: