Braxton Hicks Contractions

What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are a tightening sensation you may feel before labor begins. You can think of them like “practice” contractions. They might begin in your second or third trimester, and they’re perfectly normal. Braxton Hicks are your body’s way of getting ready for real labor.

Braxton Hicks contractions can feel like mild menstrual cramps or random tightness in your abdomen. They can be uncomfortable, but you should be able to talk and walk when you have one.

Unlike real labor, Braxton Hicks:

• Are irregular
• Don’t get stronger or closer together
• Don’t dilate (open) your cervix

What causes Braxton Hicks contractions?

No one knows why some get Braxton Hicks and others don’t. Some healthcare providers think they help soften and thin your cervix. What providers know is that they happen when your uterus is getting ready for labor.

Some things that may trigger them are:

• Being dehydrated
• Being very active
• Having to pee
• Having sex
• Lifting something heavy

What week do they start?

Braxton Hicks can start as early as the second trimester. Not everyone gets them, though.

How can I tell if they’re Braxton Hicks or real contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, unpredictable and never get intensely painful. They come and go at random intervals and ease up when you change positions or take a walk.

On the other hand, real labor contractions will come at more regular intervals and last closer to 60 seconds each. They’ll gradually feel more painful and get closer together. Talking and walking will become difficult.

This chart can help you determine if your contractions are Braxton Hicks or actual labor:

It might be helpful to time your contractions. Write down how much time it takes from the start of one contraction to the start of the next. Pay attention to how much pain you feel. Do this for about an hour.

Do they mean labor is near?

No. Braxton Hicks mean your body is preparing for labor, but they don’t mean labor is starting. You can have them weeks or months before real labor begins.

What can I do to help Braxton Hicks contractions?

There are a few things you can do to feel more comfortable during Braxton Hicks contractions:

• Take a walk or move if you’ve been sitting for a long time
• Lie down and rest if you’ve been moving
• Drink water (and stay hydrated)
• Eat a snack
• Go pee (an empty bladder can help)
• Do something relaxing, like taking a bath, reading a book or getting a prenatal massage

When should I worry?

You shouldn’t worry about Braxton Hicks contractions. They’re normal and common. It might help to track the intensity of the pain, as well as the frequency and duration of your contractions. This can help you and your healthcare provider determine if it’s the “real thing” or Braxton Hicks.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Your healthcare provider is available any time to answer your questions and ease your concerns about whether your contractions are signs of true labor. Don’t be afraid to call your provider if you aren’t sure what you’re feeling. Your provider might ask you some questions to help determine if you’re in labor.

You should call them at any time if you have:

• Bright red vaginal bleeding
• Continuous leaking of fluid or wetness, or a gush of fluid
• Strong contractions less than five minutes apart for one hour
• Contractions that you’re unable to walk or talk through
• A noticeable change in your baby’s movement