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| Braxton Hicks Contraction: False vs True Labor |
Have you heard about the Braxton hicks contraction? These are painless and irregular tightenings of the uterus that can happen at any time during pregnancy, but they’re more common in the last three months. They’re named after John Braxton Hicks, an English doctor who first wrote about them in 1872.
Braxton Hicks contractions don’t mean you’re in labor, but they can help your body and cervix get ready for it. They can also be mistaken for real labor contractions, especially if they get stronger and closer together as you get closer to your due date. So how do you know if it’s false or true labor? And what should you do if you have Braxton Hicks contractions?
In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more. We’ll tell you what Braxton Hicks contractions are, what makes them happen, what they feel like, and how long they last. We’ll also show you how they’re different from real contractions and give you some advice on how to handle them and when to contact your doctor. Finally, we’ll answer some common questions about Braxton Hicks contractions.
Keep reading to find out more about this!
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What is Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are occasional tightenings and loosenings of the muscle that surrounds the uterus. They can happen at any time during pregnancy, but they are more likely to be noticed in the last three months. They are sometimes called “false labor” or “practice contractions” because they do not mean that the baby is ready to be born or that labor is about to start. Braxton Hicks contractions are the body’s way of getting ready for the real thing by making the muscle of the uterus stronger and improving the blood supply to the placenta, which nourishes the baby. However, they do not make any changes to the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus that needs to widen and thin out for the baby to pass through. This is how true labor contractions are different from Braxton Hicks contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions are named after John Braxton Hicks, an English doctor who was the first to write about them in 1872.
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Braxton Hicks Symptoms
Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy that can sometimes make you wonder if you are in labor. However, there are some clues and differences that can help you figure out what’s going on. Braxton Hicks contractions usually:
- Feel mild and painless, or cause a little discomfort or pressure in your lower belly or groin.
- Feel like period cramps or a squeezing sensation.
- Last for half a minute to two minutes.
- Happen at random times, without becoming more frequent or longer over time.
- Change in strength and frequency, and may go away or get better when you move around, drink some water, or take a break.
On the other hand, true labor contractions are usually:
- Painful and strong, and cause a dull ache in your back and lower belly, along with pressure in your pelvis.
- Regular and steady, and get closer together and longer over time.
- Stronger and more often as time goes by, and do not stop or ease up with movement or hydration.
If you are not sure whether you are having Braxton Hicks contractions or true labor contractions, call your healthcare provider for guidance. They may ask you to keep track of your contractions or come in for an exam.
When does Braxton Hicks Start
Braxton Hicks contractions can surprise you anytime after the first trimester, but they are more common in the home stretch. Some women may not feel a thing, while others may feel them quite often. Braxton Hicks contractions are your body’s way of practicing for labor, but they don’t mean that it’s showtime. They are usually random, painless, and short-lived, and they may disappear or change when you move around or drink some water. Braxton Hicks contractions are different from true labor contractions, which are more intense, frequent, and consistent, and make your cervix ready for delivery.
What does Braxton Hicks Feel Like
Braxton Hicks contractions can feel like mild period cramps and uncomfortable. They often go away or change when you move or rest. You can chat, walk and do your normal things during Braxton Hicks contractions. They may be set off by certain things, such as being dehydrated, having a full bladder, having sex, exercising, or feeling stressed.
Braxton Hicks contractions are usually weak and irregular, with each contraction lasting up to two minutes. They do not become more frequent, longer, or stronger over time. They may be felt in a specific area in the front of the belly or all over the uterus.
Braxton Hicks contractions are normal and harmless, but they can be confusing and annoying for some pregnant women who may think they are in labor. It is important to know the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions, as well as when to call your doctor if you are unsure or worried.
The Causes of Braxton Hicks
You may be curious about what makes these contractions happen and how to stop them from becoming too often or uncomfortable. According to various sources, some possible reasons for Braxton Hicks contractions are:
- Dehydration: Pregnant women need to drink a lot of fluids to stay hydrated and avoid setting off Braxton Hicks contractions. Dehydration is the most common reason for Braxton Hicks contractions.
- Activity: Being very busy, such as walking, working out, or lifting heavy things, can make your uterus tighten. You may feel Braxton Hicks contractions more in the evening after a long day. Taking a break and changing your position may help them go away.
- Urination: Having a full bladder can also put pressure on your uterus and make it tighten. You may feel Braxton Hicks contractions when you have to pee or after you empty your bladder.
- Sex: Having sex or an orgasm can stimulate your uterus and make it tighten. You may feel Braxton Hicks contractions during or after sex. They are usually harmless and fade away within a few minutes.
- Other factors: Some other factors that may cause Braxton Hicks contractions are stress, baby movement, infections, or touching the belly.
Braxton Hicks contractions are not a sign of labor, but they can help your body prepare for it. They may also help your cervix get softer and thinner (effacement), which can make labor easier. However, if you have any worries about your contractions or if they become regular, painful, or come with other symptoms, such as bleeding, leaking fluid, or less baby movement, you should call your doctor or midwife right away.
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How Long do Braxton Hicks Contractions Last?
Braxton Hicks contractions are like a surprise party. They can show up anytime, anywhere, and last for a few seconds or a couple of minutes. True labor contractions are like a countdown. They start at 30 seconds and go up to 90 seconds and get longer and longer as time goes by. Braxton Hicks contractions are different from true labor contractions because they do not get stronger or more frequent or more lasting over time. Some things can trigger them, such as being dehydrated, stressed, full of pee, horny, or lifting something heavy. Braxton Hicks contractions usually go away if you change your position or take a stroll.
Is Braxton Hicks Normal?
Don’t worry about Braxton Hicks contractions. They are part of the pregnancy journey and can happen anytime from the second trimester onwards. You may feel them more in the final stretch. Some women may hardly notice them, while others may feel them a lot. Braxton Hicks contractions are like a rehearsal for your uterus, getting it ready for labor. But they don’t mean that labor is near. They are usually mild, irregular, and short-lived, and they may stop or change when you move or drink water. Braxton Hicks contractions are different from true labor contractions, which are more powerful, frequent, and consistent, and cause changes in your cervix.
Braxton Hicks Vs Real Contraction
One of the most common questions that pregnant women have is how to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor contractions. Both kinds of contractions are normal and can happen at any time during pregnancy, but they are not the same. There are some clues that can help you figure out which ones you are feeling.
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, unpredictable, and usually painless or mild. They do not increase in frequency, intensity, or duration over time. They may stop or change when you change your position, activity, or hydration level. They do not cause any changes in your cervix or progress your labor.
Real labor contractions are regular, consistent, and usually painful or intense. They increase in frequency, intensity, and duration over time. They do not stop or change when you change your position, activity, or hydration level. They cause your cervix to dilate and efface and progress your labor.
Here are some ways to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor contractions:
- Timing: Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic and may occur a few times a day or a few times an hour. Real labor contractions are rhythmic and occur at regular intervals that get closer together as labor progresses.
- Strength: Braxton Hicks contractions are usually weak and may feel like a tightening or cramping sensation in your abdomen or lower back. Real labor contractions are usually strong and may feel like a wave of pain that starts in your back and moves to your abdomen.
- Location: Braxton Hicks contractions may be felt in one area of your uterus or all over. Real labor contractions may start in your lower back and radiate to your abdomen or vice versa.
- Duration: Braxton Hicks contractions last for a few seconds to a few minutes and then subside. Real labor contractions last for 30 to 70 seconds and then gradually increase in length.
- Pattern: Braxton Hicks contractions do not follow a pattern and may vary in frequency and intensity. Real labor contractions follow a pattern and become more frequent and intense as labor progresses.
If you are unsure whether you are experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or real labor contractions, you can try the following tips:
- Drink some water and rest: Dehydration and fatigue can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions. If you drink some water and lie down on your left side, they may subside. Real labor contractions will not stop with hydration or rest.
- Change your position or activity: Braxton Hicks contractions may stop or change when you move around, walk, or change your posture. Real labor contractions will continue regardless of your movement.
- Take a warm bath or shower: Warm water can relax your muscles and ease Braxton Hicks contractions. Real labor contractions will not be affected by warm water.
- Time your contractions: Use a stopwatch or an app to record the start and end of each contraction. Note the frequency, intensity, and duration of each contraction. If they are irregular, unpredictable, and mild, they are likely Braxton Hicks contractions. If they are regular, consistent, and strong, they are likely real labor contractions.
If you think you are in labor or have any concerns about your contractions, call your doctor or midwife right away. They can check your cervix and monitor your baby’s heartbeat to determine if you are in labor or not. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention if you have any signs of preterm labor (before 37 weeks), such as:
- More than four contractions in an hour
- Bleeding or spotting
- Fluid leaking from your vagina
- Increased pressure in your pelvis
- Low back pain
- Cramps that feel like menstrual cramps
What to do During Braxton Hicks Contraction?
Braxton Hicks contractions are usually harmless and do not require any specific treatment. However, they can be uncomfortable and annoying, especially if they occur frequently or interfere with your daily activities. Here are some things you can do to cope with Braxton Hicks contractions:
- Breathe deeply and relax: Breathing slowly and deeply can help you calm down and ease the tension in your muscles. You can also try some relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or listening to soothing music.
- Massage your abdomen or lower back: Gently rubbing or massaging the area where you feel the contractions can help relieve the discomfort. You can also ask your partner or a friend to massage you or apply some pressure on your lower back.
- Apply heat or cold: You can use a heating pad, a hot water bottle, a warm towel, or a cold pack to soothe the pain in your abdomen or lower back. Make sure you do not apply heat or cold directly on your skin and limit the exposure to 15 minutes at a time.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can prevent dehydration, which can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions. Drink water, juice, milk, or herbal tea throughout the day, and avoid caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.
- Change your position or activity: Sometimes, changing your posture or moving around can stop or reduce the frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions. You can try lying down on your left side, sitting up straight, standing up, walking, or stretching. Avoid lying on your back or staying in one position for too long.
- Empty your bladder: A full bladder can put pressure on your uterus and cause Braxton Hicks contractions. Try to urinate frequently and avoid holding it in for too long.
- Eat small and frequent meals: Eating too much or too little can cause indigestion, gas, or bloating, which can irritate your uterus and trigger Braxton Hicks contractions. Eat small and frequent meals that are balanced and nutritious and avoid spicy, greasy, or acidic foods.
Braxton Hicks contractions are usually nothing to worry about and do not affect your baby’s health or well-being. However, if they become too painful, frequent, or regular, you should contact your doctor or midwife to rule out any complications or signs of labor. Remember that every pregnancy is different and you should always trust your instincts and listen to your body.
When to be Concerned About Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks contractions are usually nothing to worry about and do not mean that anything is wrong with your pregnancy. But sometimes they can be a warning sign of a serious problem, such as preterm labor, placental abruption, or uterine rupture. You should get in touch with your doctor or midwife right away if you have any of these symptoms along with Braxton Hicks contractions:
- Severe or constant pain in your abdomen or lower back
- Bleeding or spotting from your vagina
- Fluid leaking from your vagina
- Decreased or absent fetal movement
- Fever, chills, or nausea
- A sudden increase in the frequency, intensity, or duration of the contractions
- Contractions that occur more than four times in an hour before 37 weeks of pregnancy
- Contractions that do not stop or change with rest, hydration, or movement
These symptoms may indicate that you are in labor or have a complication that requires immediate medical attention. Do not try to self-diagnose or treat yourself at home. Seek professional help as soon as possible to ensure your safety and your baby’s health.
Conclusion
Braxton Hicks contractions are a common and normal phenomenon that occurs during pregnancy. They are not a sign of labor, but rather a way for your uterus to practice and prepare for the big day. They are usually painless or mild and do not cause any harm to you or your baby. However, sometimes they can be confused with real labor contractions or indicate a potential complication. Therefore, it is important to know how to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and real labor contractions and when to seek medical help. By being aware of your body and your baby’s movements, you can avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety and enjoy your pregnancy journey. Remember that every woman and every pregnancy is different, so trust your instincts and listen to your body. If you have any questions or concerns about your contractions, do not hesitate to contact your doctor or midwife. They are there to support you and guide you through this amazing experience.
FAQs
How can I prevent or reduce Braxton Hicks contractions?
There is no sure way to prevent or reduce Braxton Hicks contractions, as they are a natural part of pregnancy. However, some factors that may trigger or worsen them include dehydration, fatigue, stress, overexertion, bladder infection, or sexual activity. Therefore, you can try to avoid these triggers by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, relaxing, limiting your physical activity, treating any infection, or abstaining from sex.
Can Braxton Hicks contractions affect my baby?
No, Braxton Hicks contractions do not affect your baby’s health or well-being. They do not cause any harm or distress to your baby. In fact, some experts believe that they may have some benefits for your baby, such as improving blood flow to the placenta, stimulating fetal development, or preparing your baby for labor.
Can Braxton Hicks contractions induce labor?
No, Braxton Hicks contractions do not induce labor or cause your cervix to dilate or efface. They are not a sign of labor, but rather a sign that your body is getting ready for labor. Labor is triggered by a complex interaction of hormones and signals between your brain, your uterus, and your baby. Braxton Hicks contractions do not play a role in this process.
How can I cope with Braxton Hicks contractions during labor?
Braxton Hicks contractions may continue during labor or even increase in frequency and intensity. However, they are usually overshadowed by real labor contractions that are more painful and powerful. You can cope with Braxton Hicks contractions during labor by using the same strategies that you used during pregnancy, such as breathing deeply, relaxing, massaging, applying heat or cold, drinking fluids, changing positions, or emptying your bladder. You can also use other methods of pain relief, such as medication, epidural, nitrous oxide, acupuncture, hypnosis, or water birth. Your doctor or midwife can help you choose the best option for you and your baby.