Between contractions, the uterus relaxes and the abdomen becomes soft. The way a contraction feels is different for each woman, and may feel different from one pregnancy to the next. But labor contractions usually cause discomfort or a dull ache in your back and lower abdomen, along with pressure in the pelvis.
Definitions for stepping stone. stepping stone(noun) a stone in a marsh or shallow water that can be stepped on in crossing. stepping stone(noun) any means of advancement. the job was just a stepping stone on his way to fame and riches. stepping stone(Noun)
1 to set down the foot in walking; step: [no object]to tread softly on the stairs.[~ + object]Many pilgrims have trod this same street to the holy shrine.  to step or walk, esp. so as to press or injure something; trample[~ + on/upon + object]The boys just trod on the flowers.