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?
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:
When to Call Your DoctorEarly in your pregnancy, talk to your doctor about what may or may not be expected and when you might need to call them. 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:
Treatment of Braxton Hicks ContractionsYou don't have to do anything for these contractions. If they’re making you uncomfortable, try one of these tips:
What week is Braxton Hicks most common?Braxton Hicks contractions occur from early in your pregnancy but you may not feel them until the second trimester. If this is your first pregnancy, you might start to feel them from about 16 weeks. In later pregnancies, you may feel Braxton Hicks contractions more often, or earlier. Some women won't feel them at all.
How can I tell if it's Braxton Hicks?Signs you may be experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions:
They're uncomfortable, but not usually painful. Intervals between contractions are irregular. Duration between each one doesn't become shorter. They don't get stronger over time.
What triggers Braxton Hicks?What Causes Braxton Hicks Contractions? These sensations are caused by the tightening of the uterine muscles. Braxton Hicks contractions often occur later in the day, and after physical activity; they may occur more frequently when you are tired or dehydrated.
Do frequent Braxton Hicks mean labor soon?Braxton Hicks are mild contractions that happen irregularly and become more common in the third trimester of pregnancy. You might experience Braxton Hicks contractions well before other signs of approaching labor show up. They tend to become stronger and more frequent as you get closer to your due date.
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