Braxton Hicks contractions are the "false" labor pains that a
pregnant woman might have before “true” labor. They’re your body's way of getting ready for the real thing. But they don’t mean labor has started or is about to begin. Some women describe Braxton Hicks contractions as tightening in their belly that comes and goes. Many say they feel like mild
menstrual cramps. Braxton Hicks contractions may be uncomfortable, but they don’t cause labor or open your cervix. Unlike true labor, Braxton Hicks contractions: You may have Braxton Hicks contractions during your third trimester of pregnancy or as early as your
second trimester. They’re normal and nothing to worry about. Dehydration is the most common cause of Braxton Hicks contractions. Other triggers include: To figure out whether your contractions are the real thing and you're going into labor, ask yourself these questions. How often do the contractions happen? Do they change when you move? How strong are they? Where do you feel the pain?What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
What Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Feel Like?
Triggers of Braxton Hicks Contractions
How Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Compare With True Labor Contractions?
- False labor: You usually feel it only in the front of your belly or pelvis.
- True labor: Contractions may start in your lower back and move to the front of your abdomen. Or they may start in your abdomen and move to your back.
Sharp,
shooting pains on the sides of your belly are called round ligament pain. This happens because the ligaments that support your uterus and attach to your pelvis get stretched as your uterus grows. Round ligament pain tends to happen with movement, like standing up, rolling over,
coughing, sneezing, or even urinating. The pain may also move into your groin. It typically lasts only a few seconds or minutes. To ease round ligament pain: Early in your pregnancy, talk to your doctor about what may or may not be expected and when you might need to call them.Other Abdominal Pain During Pregnancy
When to Call Your Doctor
If you're not sure that what you're feeling may be labor, call your doctor or midwife. They should be available at any time to answer questions and discuss your concerns.
Call your doctor or midwife right away if you have:
- Any vaginal bleeding
- Constant fluid leaks, or if your water breaks (this can be gushing or trickling fluid)
- Strong contractions every 5 minutes for an hour
- Contractions that you can’t "walk through"
- A distinct change in your baby's movement, or if you feel fewer than 10 movements every 2 hours
- Any signs of true labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy
Treatment of Braxton Hicks Contractions
You don't have to do anything for these contractions. If they’re making you uncomfortable, try one of these tips:
- Drink water.
- Take a walk. False labor 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.