Braxton Hicks contractions are abdominal contractures that can easily be confused with labor pains. They are generated by the uterus contracting and relaxing in preparation for an eventual delivery, but they do not indicate that labor has begun. Braxton Hicks contractions begin in the first phase of the second trimester, but are more frequent in the third. All women have these contractions, but not all feel them. The frequency and intensity generally tend to increase towards the end of pregnancy and these contractions are often confused with labor.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Recognizing the Difference Between Braxton Hicks Contractions and True Labor Contractions
Step 1. Locate the pain
Do the contractions manifest as a tight band around the abdomen? In this case it is probably Braxton Hicks contractions. Labor pain typically begins in the lower back and moves to the abdomen or vice versa.
- Labor pains are often described as menstrual cramps.
- Intermittent pain in the lower back and pressure in the pelvic area most often indicate actual contractions.
Step 2. Analyze the type of pain
Are the contractions uncomfortable or are they really painful? Does physical pain increase with each contraction? Those from Braxton Hicks usually don't hurt and don't get more and more painful. They are usually light or they start with a higher intensity and then get weaker and weaker.
Otherwise, the pains of childbirth constantly increase in intensity
Step 3. Calculate the timing of the contractions
Those of Braxton Hicks are often irregular and do not become more frequent. The contractions of childbirth, on the other hand, occur at regular intervals and slowly increase in frequency, starting every 15-20 minutes and then reaching a contraction every 5 minutes. This type of pain lasts for 30 to 90 seconds.
Step 4. Change location
If you feel the contractions while sitting, try walking a little. If you are walking or standing, sit down instead. The contractions of Braxton Hicks often stop when you change position, unlike those of labor which instead do not stop even in this case and often increase in intensity when you walk.
Step 5. Calculate what stage of pregnancy you are in
If you haven't reached week 37 yet, your contractions are most likely Braxton Hicks' contractions. However, if you are past this period and have other signs, such as frequent urination, diarrhea, vaginal spotting, or loss of the mucous plug, these are the true contractions of childbirth.
If you have contractions of labor before the thirty-seventh week, it means that you are having a premature birth: in this case, contact your gynecologist immediately
Part 2 of 3: Managing Braxton Hicks Contractions
Step 1. Walk
If these contractions cause discomfort, remember that they often disappear with movement. If you have already walked, you can stop them by sitting down for a while.
Step 2. Relax
Get a massage, take a bath, or just find time to get the rest you need to soothe the contractions. Reading, listening to music, or taking a nap can also help.
Step 3. Recognize the triggers
Braxton Hicks contractions represent healthy uterine exercise in preparation for labor. They occur spontaneously, but some pregnant women find that they are induced by certain specific activities. They could occur after exercise or strenuous activities; sometimes the triggers are sexual intercourse or orgasm. Some women experience them when they are very tired or dehydrated.
- If you learn to recognize triggers, you can tell when Braxton Hicks contractions are occurring.
- These contractions are not to be avoided, but they can be a good "reminder" to remind you to drink and rest.
Part 3 of 3: Knowing When to Contact Your Doctor
Step 1. Call your gynecologist when you see signs of true labor
If the contractions occur every five minutes for over an hour or if your water breaks, you need to call your doctor. If you're not sure if these are really pre-birth signs, your doctor or midwife will help you recognize the symptoms over the phone or even in person.
- You don't need to go to the hospital right away, but a phone call can help you figure out what you need to do.
- False alarms are quite common, especially when it comes to the first pregnancy. You don't have to worry and feel embarrassed if you go to the hospital too early - it's part of the motherhood experience.
Step 2. Call your doctor if you have any signs of premature delivery
If you have these symptoms before the 36th week, you should see your gynecologist. If you are still under 37 weeks and are experiencing signs of labor, as well as vaginal spotting, you should call your doctor right away.
If at any stage of gestation you notice vaginal bleeding and not just a spotting episode, contact your gynecologist immediately
Step 3. Call the doctor even if the baby seems to be moving less than normal
If your movements start to subside after your baby starts kicking regularly, then you need to see your doctor. If you do not feel at least ten movements within two hours or if the movements have decreased significantly, call the doctor.
Advice
- If you experience sharp, stabbing pain in the sides of your abdomen, it is probably not about impending labor. This is called round ligament pain of the uterus and tends to move towards the groin. It can be caused by the stretching of the ligaments that support the uterus. To relieve it, try changing your position or activity level.
- Anxiety may make you feel more discomfort than it actually is. If this is your first child or if you have experienced a previous traumatic pregnancy, the false contractions may be more annoying to you. Avoid stressful situations and get adequate rest during the "sweet wait". You can also talk to other people about what is bothering you, to find the relief you need.
Warnings
- Know that there is nothing wrong with contacting your doctor at any time. If you feel like there's a problem, call him.
- It is essential to call the gynecologist in case of vaginal bleeding, continuous fluid loss, if the contractions occur every 5 minutes for an hour or if the baby moves less than 10 times every two hours.
