Experts claim they feel the same as singleton pregnancies—like a random tightening or hardening of the uterus that lasts less than two minutes. However, pregnancies with multiples are associated with a higher risk for preterm labor, so make sure you don't mistake Braxton Hicks for the real deal.
By Nicole Harris Updated August 24, Save Pin FB More. Causes, Symptoms, and Pain Relief. By Nicole Harris. Be the first to comment! No comments yet. Close this dialog window Add a comment. Add your comment As you enter your third trimester and get closer to delivery, your Braxton-Hicks contractions may happen multiple times an hour for hours on end much like the questions from strangers about when you are due.
As a result, the contractions may stop after you rest, drink water, or change your position. Related: What do different types of labor contractions feel like?
So, how can you tell the difference between Braxton-Hicks and labor contractions? The good news is that there are some distinguishing factors that may help clue you in. Still, there are some triggers that seem to bring them about somewhat universally. The contractions may help to increase blood flow to the placenta and give your baby more oxygen. Related: Contractions after sex: Is this normal? Quite literally — you should try to take it easy.
There is no medical treatment needed for these contractions. Try focusing on resting, drinking more fluids, and changing your position — even if that just means moving from the bed to the couch for a while. While lifestyle treatments are preferred, there are certain medications that may help ease your contractions. Related: Irritable uterus and irritable uterus contractions. Consider if you might be experiencing one of the following conditions.
As your baby grows, the uterus presses on your bladder. UTIs can get worse and even impact the kidneys without treatment. Gas and bloating may be worse during pregnancy due to high levels of the hormone progesterone. Constipation is another stomach issue that may cause discomfort and even pain In fact, constipation is quite common during pregnancy. Sharp pain on the right or left side of your belly may be round ligament pain.
If you notice any of the following signs of labour call your midwife or doctor straight away:. Every practice contraction is helping your body prepare for the big day when you do go into labour. How we wrote this article The information in this article is based on the expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the National Health Service NHS.
The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment. Updated April 30, What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions? Labour contractions are regular, predictable, and grow closer together over time. If you're a novice mom-to-be in your first pregnancy, you may not notice them as much or even at all or wind up feeling them as intensely as those who are pregnant for the second time.
But even first-timers are sometimes aware of them. Braxton Hicks contractions can begin any time after week 20 of pregnancy in the second trimester, though they're more noticeable in later months, in the third trimester.
They'll increase starting around week 32 all the way until real labor starts. Your pregnancy hormones are hard at work, sending messages to your body to slowly start the process of childbirth. Braxton Hicks contractions generally only last between 15 and 30 seconds, though they can be as long as two minutes. To help you distinguish between true and false labor, which usually means Braxton Hicks contractions, look for the following signs of each to see what you might be experiencing if you're not sure.
The difference is usually connected to the frequency, intensity and location of the contractions. Having no Braxton Hicks contractions is completely normal, and it won't be a problem when it comes time to deliver your baby. Some pregnant women, especially first-timers, don't notice their Braxton Hicks. Others may not know what they are when they do feel them. While they're quite intense in some women, especially those who've had a baby before, they can be so mild in others just a slight tightening of the abdomen that they're overlooked.
In any case, don't worry if you're not experiencing Braxton Hicks, as you simply may not be tuned in to them, or you may get them later in your pregnancy. Some women feel Braxton Hicks in the second trimester, others in the third.
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