Braxton Hicks Contractions...False Labor or the Real Deal?
It’s always a good idea to check with your doctor or midwife when you start having cramps, but don’t panic. You may just be having Braxton Hicks Contractions. Many believe that they’re your body’s way of getting ready for the real deal. These practice contractions are probably just your womb doing some toning and strengthening workouts for your big job of pushing your baby out. They can usually last for 30 seconds or up to 2 minutes.
What Are Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks contractions are a tightening in your abdomen that comes and goes. They are contractions of your uterus in preparation for giving birth. They tone the muscles in your uterus and may also help prepare the cervix for birth.
What Do They Feel Like?
Sometimes these contractions are so mild you don’t even feel them. They’re not usually painful. They’re more like a band tightening around your uterus, or your belly getting hard.
Don’t have a regular pattern
Don’t get closer together
Don’t get longer over time
Don’t get stronger over time
May stop when you change activities or positions
Are felt only in your belly
Taper off and disappear
What Triggers Them?
Dehydration the most common cause of Braxton Hicks contractions.
Illness that causes nausea and vomiting.
The baby’s movement inside the womb.
The mother’s activity, especially lifting something.
Braxton Hicks Contractions or Real Labor?
Many moms wonder if they are experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or actual labor contractions. Don’t hesitate to call your care provider and/or doula just to double check and make sure!
Strategies for Relief
Change your position or activity. It might help to lie on your opposite side.
Support your belly when you stand or roll over. Move more slowly.
Try to rest. A heating pad or a hot bath may help.
Drink water.
Take a walk. Braxton Hicks contractions often stop when you change position or get up and move.
If you've been active, take a nap or rest.
Relax by taking a warm bath or listening to music.
Get a massage.
You may have Braxton Hicks contractions during your third trimester of pregnancy or as early as your second trimester. They’re normal and are nothing to worry about!