37.5 weeks and real contractions?

[FaithnHope41]

I will be 38 weeks this Friday and have been having what I think are pretty consistent contractions. With this being my first baby, it is so hard to tell. I am timing them fairly close together and the pain is getting more severe in my lower back and sides. Anyone else have anything like this? Is this a sign of what is hopeful to come soon?

 

[Mummyxofx2]

How far apart are they? I suggest ringing the hospital =) GL