You do not say for how long you have been having the period-like pains. If these have been happening for several weeks, they are very unlikely to be caused by premature labour. Many women experience odd aches of this kind at intervals during pregnancy. They may be caused by the position of your baby. Alternatively, they may be a sign of a mild urine infection. I suggest you phone your midwife in the next day or so to ask her advice. Do this more urgently if you have any bleeding or unusual discharge from your vagina. In the meantime, drink plenty of water, and try to rest for a while in the middle of the day. If however, these pains have only just started, and are getting stronger, then – yes – they may be a sign of premature labour. It is important to get in touch with your midwife or doctor as soon as possible – especially if you have lost any fluid or blood, or have any concerns about your baby’s movements. If your midwife or doctor is not immediately available, I suggest you telephone the labour ward at your maternity unit for advice. Premature labour can sometimes be delayed if action is taken quickly. Sometimes there is an infection that needs treating. Drugs may also be given to stop contractions – at least until the baby is ready to be born.