Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks are sporadic uterine contractions that some women experience during pregnancy. First described by Dr. John Braxton Hicks in 1872, these contractions are often referred to as "false" or "practice labor contractions" because they help prepare your body for the real birth, but Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions differ in a variety of ways. Learning about these two contractions will help prepare you for when it's time to give birth.

What do Braxton Hicks Contractions Feel like?

Braxton Hicks contractions vary for each expecting mother, but certain characteristics are common. Braxton Hicks contractions are described as being:

• Irregular in intensity and frequency.
• Unpredictable.
• More uncomfortable than painful.
• A tightened uterus that you may or may not notice.
• Contractions that do not get stronger.
• Contractions you can feel in the front of the abdomen or pelvic area.

What do Real Labor Contractions Feel Like?

In order to help you differentiate Braxton Hicks from true labor contractions, the following is a list of common symptoms of real labor:

• Contractions that occur at regular intervals, lasting approximately 30 to 70 seconds. As time goes on, true labor contractions will last longer in length and be stronger in intensity.
• Contractions that continue despite changing your level of activity or position.
• Abdominal pain that feels similar to menstrual cramps.
• More than four contractions occurring in one hour.
• Lower back pain and increased pelvic pressure.
• Vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge (especially if it is watery or bloody).

How to Stop Braxton Hicks Contractions

Unlike real labor contractions, you can help stop or alleviate the severity of your Braxton Hicks contractions by doing the following:

• Changing positions if you are lying down.
• Taking a warm bath to help your body relax.
• Drinking water; Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes triggered by dehydration.
• Taking slow, deep breaths. This may not get rid of your Braxton Hicks contractions, but they will help you cope with the discomfort.
• Changing your level of activity such as going for a walk. True labor contractions will persist no matter what you do.

You should contact your doctor or midwife if you experience contractions closer than 12 minutes apart before your 37th week of pregnancy as this may indicate preterm labor.