Weeks 20-40

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Last reviewed by medical team: June 2026

🟢 Normal Pregnancy Marker

Why It Happens

Irregular, painless tightening sensations of the uterus. They are "practice contractions" that prepare your uterine muscles for actual labor.

Safe Home Remedies

Change your position or activity (walk if sitting, rest if active).
Drink a large glass of water, as dehydration triggers them.
Lie down on your left side.

⚠️ When to Contact a Doctor

Call your doctor if contractions become regular, painful, increase in frequency (more than 4 in an hour before week 37), or are accompanied by vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage.

Related Guides & Resources

Typical Week Ranges

This symptom commonly occurs during these weeks of pregnancy:

Week 20 Week 24 Week 28 Week 32 Week 36 Week 40

Related Conditions

Symptom matches for these prenatal conditions:

✦ Gestational Diabetes ✦ Preeclampsia

Clinical Questions & Answers

Q1: How do Braxton Hicks feel?

Like a tight band squeezing your abdomen. They are usually painless and do not have a regular pattern.

Q2: Can walking stop Braxton Hicks?

Yes, unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks often disappear when you change your activity or walk.

Q3: Are Braxton Hicks contractions dangerous?

No, they are a normal part of pregnancy and do not dilate the cervix.