I remember those Braxton Hicks so vividly. Sat in the office, powering through work-life, and then suddenly being remembered that my body was taking care of some important business on its own... A tightening, rock-hard belly, deep-breath and then carrying on until another one would remind me that maybe I should move around a bit, have a glass of water, or go to the loo - again...
So, what are Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks are uterine surges (when the womb tightens and relaxes). They may start from 6 weeks onward but you might not notice them until the 2nd or 3rd trimester of your pregnancy - the bigger your womb gets the stronger the sensations are. They may also become more frequent in the 3rd trimester (from 28 weeks), and particularly as you get closer to your due date as your body is getting ready for the 'real thing'!
Braxton Hicks are often referred to as 'practice contractions' or 'false labour'. They may gradually help thin and soften the cervix (the entrance to the womb), but they differ to labour surges since they won’t cause dilation to make space for your baby to be born. Just think of them as important rehearsals for your uterine muscles as they get ready for one of the most amazing performances your body will ever achieve: birth!
Common triggers
No one knows exactly what causes Braxton Hicks but here are a few things that are thought to trigger them:
Physical activity
Dehydration
Full bladder
Having sex
Someone touching your belly
How will I know if what I'm experiencing are Braxton Hicks or the 'real deal'?
The best way to recognise whether you are experiencing Braxton Hicks or Labour Surges is to WATCH and WAIT.
Here is what you'll want to assess:
Braxton Hicks | Labour Surges |
Remain unpredictable (infrequent and non-rhythmic) - no pattern. | Become more predictable (more frequent and regular) - you'll eventually be able to time them in a pattern. |
Don't gradually increase in length | Gradually become longer over time |
Don't gradually increase in intensity | Gradually become more powerful |
Likely to go away when using the tips listed below (might be more stubborn during the onset of labour) | Although labour surges can slow down, or sometimes stop for a while, the tips listed below shouldn't have a disruptive impact on labour gradually becoming more established. |
Tips to ease up Braxton Hicks
Change position
Walk around
Stop activity/ rest
Drink a large glass of water
Deep breathing
Empty your bladder
Have a bath
If you're unsure or if you're experiencing unusual discharge or bleeding, call your care provider to ask for advice.
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Photo by Janko Ferlic