Braxton Hicks Contractions

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Braxton Hicks

Described by some people as practise contractions, Braxton hicks can be quite frightening if you don't know what they are!

These usually mild form of contractions normally start around the second trimester, but some women report feeling them earlier. Other women will never experience them at all.

So what exactly are Braxton Hicks contractions?

You may feel a tightening around your bump, the muscles in your uterus will tighten for around 30 to 60 seconds and then relax again. These are normally quite painless, but it does feel rather odd. As you progress with your pregnancy you may notice that they start to feel more intense, even a little painful, but this is normally nothing to worry about.

If on the other hand you are under 37 weeks pregnant your contractions are accompanied by unusual vaginal discharge (watery or bloody) or if you have cramping or pain in your lower back, you should contact your GP immediately as this could be a sign of early labor.

So what are these contractions for?

Well opinions vary with the answer to this question. Some experts believe that they help to get your cervix ready for the birth of your baby. While others believe that these 'practise' contractions don't play any part in the 'ripening' of the cervix.

A lot of women often wonder how they will know the difference between Braxton Hicks and the real thing... You just will! True labor and real contractions will progress, they will get more intense, they will get closer together. Majority of women just 'know' when it's for real.These practise contractions will be irregular and unpredictable, they will never settle into a pattern.

If you find the practise contractions annoying or uncomfortable, then you could try moving positions. Get up and walk around, or try lying down for a while. Do anything that changes the activity that you are doing. You could try a nice warm relaxing bath.

If you find yourself worrying about the birth, then it could be helpful to read up on what options are available to you to help ease the pain of true labor. Some medical drugs have certain side effects for you and your baby. A natural way to help the pain caused by labor and contractions is acupressure, this can also help to speed up the process of birth and leave you in control of your labor.

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