Braxton Hicks Contractions: Symptoms, Causes and What They Feel Like
Overview
Braxton Hicks contractions are common during pregnancy and are often described as practice contractions that prepare the body for labour.
Let's understand more about Braxton Hicks contractions, what they feel like, when they start, their causes, how they differ from true labour, and ways to relieve them.
What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are the tightening sensations that can occur prior to labor beginning. These are sometimes referred to as "practice" contractions, as they are a part of the body's preparation for labor.
Braxton Hicks contractions are normal during pregnancy; they can occur as early as the second or third trimester. However, Braxton Hicks contractions differ greatly from true labor contractions.
They are irregular and unpredictable, thus not becoming progressively stronger or closer together. In addition, Braxton Hicks contractions do not affect the opening of the cervix.
While Braxton Hicks contractions can be somewhat uncomfortable, most women who experience Braxton Hicks contractions typically can continue to walk and speak throughout the contraction(s).
What Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Feel Like?
- How they feel: Braxton Hicks contractions typically feel like mild menstrual cramps or a brief tightening in the abdominal area, usually felt at the front of the tummy.
- Pain and discomfort: The discomfort may vary with each contraction, but the contractions should not become increasingly painful.
- Relieving discomfort: Changing positions, such as standing up or going for a walk, may help relieve Braxton Hicks contractions.
- Tracking contractions: Keeping track of the timing, duration, and severity of contractions can help you better understand what you are experiencing.
What Causes Braxton Hicks Contractions?
There are several factors that may cause Braxton Hicks contractions. Some possible factors include the following:
- Dehydration
- A high level of physical activity
- Having a full bladder
- Having sex
- Lifting something heavy
When Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Start?
Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as the second trimester. They can also occur immediately following physical activity.
If you notice tightening following exercise, sexual activity, or lifting, ask yourself if there could be a link. Consuming water and resting can provide relief and allow you to feel more comfortable.
Each pregnancy is unique; therefore, the manner in which the contractions feel and when you first notice them may vary. Your health care provider can educate you on symptoms related to your pregnancy and specific health requirements.
If anything seems unusual or alarming to you, please seek advice from your provider regarding your individual health needs and concerns.
Braxton Hicks vs. True Labor: How to Tell the Difference
What to look for | Braxton Hicks contractions | True labor contractions |
| Contraction pattern | They happen at irregular times, with no consistent pattern. | Develop a regular pattern and generally become more frequent over time. |
| Duration | They can last for different lengths of time. | Typically last around 30–90 seconds each. |
| Effect of movement | May ease or disappear when you change position, rest, or walk. | Usually continue despite changes in position or activity. |
| Intensity | Often feel mild or uncomfortable, allowing you to continue most daily activities. | Tend to grow more intense, making it harder to walk or talk through them. |
| Location of discomfort | Commonly felt as tightening across the front of the abdomen. | May begin in the lower back and spread towards the abdomen, or be felt primarily in the abdomen. |
| Other signs | Usually occur without other signs of labor. | May be accompanied by a mucus plug discharge, a blood-tinged show, or your waters breaking. |
Important note: These signs can help you understand the difference, but they cannot confirm whether labor has started. If you suspect you are in labor, your waters break, you experience vaginal bleeding, or your baby is moving less than usual, contact your maternity care team promptly. If you are less than 37 weeks pregnant and experience possible labor symptoms, seek urgent maternity assessment.
How to Relieve Braxton Hicks Contractions
While Braxton Hicks contractions are harmless, you can ease the discomfort with a few simple steps:
- Adjust your activity: Move around and take a short walk if you’ve been sitting, or lie down and rest if you’ve been on your feet.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, as dehydration can increase both the frequency and intensity of contractions.
- Empty your bladder: A full bladder puts added pressure on your uterus, which can trigger or worsen contractions.
- Have a light snack: Eating something small helps if hunger or low blood sugar is contributing to uterine tightness.
- Practice relaxation: Unwind with a warm bath, a good book, gentle breathing exercises, or a prenatal massage.
When Should You Contact Your Doctor?
You can contact your doctor or midwife at any time if you notice the following:
- Bright red vaginal bleeding
- Fluid leaking continuously
- Sudden gushing of fluid
- Strong contractions occurring every five minutes for more than an hour
- Strong contractions that are so intense they prevent you from walking or talking through them
- Change in baby's movement
All of these possible warning signs of complications need immediate attention from a health care professional. Don't assume the pain of your contractions is only Braxton Hicks if they are becoming more frequent or more intense or are accompanied by other signs of impending birth.
FAQs
What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like?
When do Braxton Hicks contractions start?
Can Braxton Hicks contractions be painful?
How can I tell Braxton Hicks from real labour?
Do Braxton Hicks contractions mean labour is near?
How can I relieve BH contractions?
References
- Raines, D. A., & Cooper, D. B. (2023). Braxton Hicks contractions. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.
- McEvoy, A., & Sabir, S. (2022). Physiology, pregnancy contractions. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing.
- La Verde, M., Riemma, G., Torella, M., et al. (2022). Impact of Braxton-Hicks contractions on fetal wellbeing: A prospective analysis through computerized cardiotocography. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 42(4), 569–573.
- Eganhouse, D. J. (1991). A comparative study of variables differentiating false labor from early labor. Journal of Perinatal Medicine, 11(3), 249–257.
- Schauberger, C. W. (1986). False labor. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 68(6), 770–772.
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