How to tell when you’re having Braxton hick contractions

Hello everyone,

This is my first time being pregnant and I have so many question but my main question is how do I tell when I’m having contractions? I’m currently 34 weeks and I’m feeling cramps that are worse than period cramps every now and then. Another question I have and i understand it’s different for everyone but how do you know you’re going into labor? I hate the answers I’ve seen “ you’ll know trust me “ when in reality not every woman will know.

For the moms out there that already gave birth, how long do you recommend breastfeeding for? My boyfriend said he saw a bunch of sites saying it’s 6-8 months however I found some studies and doctors recommending 12 months.