Everything you Need to Know about Braxton Hicks Contractions

You might have heard about Braxton Hicks contractions or even experienced them if you’re far enough along in your pregnancy. Its one of those things that’s not always so straight forward and sometimes easier to identify after you’ve experienced labor contractions.

So, we’re going to be unpacking just what Braxton Hicks contractions are, why some women feel them and others dont, what you can do if you experience them, and how to tell the difference between these and the real deal labor contractions.

What is a Braxton Hicks contraction?

Braxton hicks contractions have often been referred to as “practice contractions” because the uterus tightens or contracts but does not cause cervical dilation or labor to occur. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions do not increase in frequency, intensity or duration over time. In fact, they can occur randomly and can last anywhere from 30 seconds to upwards of 2 minutes. Now they definitely can be uncomfortable… but when compared to labor contractions, are not considered painful. They’re typically felt in the front of the abdomen or only in one specific area of the uterus where as true labor contractions involve the entire uterus and often surrounding areas like the back, hips, and legs. Braxton hicks contractions are typically mild. This guide can help determine if the contractions you are experiencing are mild, moderate or strong. Thankfully, these contractions are not for nothing! They are thought to play a role in toning the uterine muscles in preparation for labor while also ripening or softening the cervix. If you’re wondering what it means to ripen the cervix, read this post here.

When do they occur?

Practice contractions may not even be felt by some first time moms. This is common and doesn’t mean that your uterus isn’t preparing for birth or that you won’t be ready for labor contractions. In contrast, moms who’ve been pregnant before may experience Braxton Hicks contractions more frequently and earlier with each pregnancy. Actually, veteran moms can experience these contractions as early as the second trimester and most often in the third trimester. Certain activities have the potential to trigger these contractions and can include:

• being very active

• having a full bladder

• having intercourse

• dehydration

• Withstanding a position for too long

In some instances, moms may experience Braxton Hicks contractions with none of these scenarios even present. The uterus may react to baby’s movement or simply contract at random. Remember, the unpredictable random nature of Braxton Hicks is what differentiates them from labor contractions in general.

What can we do about them?

Because these contractions help to prepare our bodies for labor, there isn’t necessarily anything that should be or has to be done when they occur. However, because they can be uncomfortable, if you’re experiencing these contractions here are some tips you can implement to address any outside contributing factors:

• If you were previously active, take a break and rest focusing on deep breaths and lowering your heartrate

• Empty your bladder

• Hydrate with water and electrolytes

• If you’ve been in a position for an extended period of time, get up and go for a leisure walk.

• Monitor your body’s response over 30-60 mintues

Typically, giving yourself time or doing one of these interventions will help alleviate the Braxton Hicks contractions and you can go about your day until another one decides to show up.

When should I call my provider?

Remember, Braxton hicks contractions do not have a predictable rhythm to them or intensify over time. If you find yourself having contractions that are persistent, predictable —meaning coming at a consistent time intervals — and intensifying in pain despite implementing the interventions mentioned above, contact your provider to be evaluated. At any point in pregnancy, if you experience bright red vaginal bleeding, have concerns about the frequency of your baby’s movements, or experience leaking of amniotic fluid, your provider and care team should be notified.

Regardless of where you are in your pregnancy, I hope this post provides reassurance, tangible tips, and a better understanding of Braxton Hicks contractions.

Stay well momma, you’re worthy! 

Skyler Jacobs, CNM