Braxton Hicks Contractions

Childbirth

You know that sooner or later you will experience contractions as your due date is approaching, but you need to be aware if you will be having Braxton Hicks contractions or "the real thing". False labor is another term associated with these contractions that mimic those leading to delivery, but which are not a sign of labor.

Braxton Hicks contractions were named after the English doctor John Braxton Hicks, who described in 1872 the contractions occurring before real labor. Dr. Braxton Hicks noted that many women felt contractions without being anywhere near labor, but experiencing the same signs and symptoms, although with different intensity and intervals, which are also called “practice contractions”.

Contractions may begin as early as the second trimester, although often occurs in the third trimester. It is not known what the reason is that triggers Braxton Hicks contractions, but dehydration seems to be one of the contributory factors. Braxton Hicks contractions are characterized by their irregular intensity.

These contractions are unpredictable, infrequent, non-rhythmic, and more uncomfortable than painful. You can differentiate them from the real labor contractions, because Braxton Hicks do not increase in intensity or frequency, tapering off, and then disappearing altogether. However, these contractions become more intense closer to your due date, helping in the dilation and effacement process.

Besides dehydration, Braxton Hicks contractions are also triggered when you or the baby are very active, or when somebody touches your abdomen. Many women who have sexual intercourse during pregnancy report an increase in the number of contractions immediately after or when their bladder is full.

It is impossible to stop Braxton Hicks contractions, but there are a number of suggestions to alleviate the discomfort that they cause you:

Drink a warm cup of milk or herbal tea
Change your position when your feel the contraction
If you have been laying or sitting for a long period, try walking
Take a relaxing warm bath for 30 minutes or less
Because contractions can be triggered by dehydration, drink plenty of water
Relaxation exercises are very helpful to cope with the discomfort
Deep breathing and Yoga techniques are the best aid to relief Braxton Hicks contractions

When Braxton Hicks contractions are out of control and contractions do not begin, you should call your doctor or midwife. Particularly if you are experiencing any vaginal spotting and bleeding, increase in vaginal discharge or any type of discharge and increased pelvic pressure, low back pain or abdominal pain that mimics menstrual-like cramping.