Painful contractions but not really regular, could this be it?

You don't want to take any chances so check with your doctor on this....I was told not to get excited or leave for the hospital until my contractions were about 1 minute apart. I did and when I got to the hospital was already dialted to 8. 10 is where you are when you're ready to deliver. Also, the plug helps keep germs and bacteria out so don't submerge yourself in any water now.