Braxton Hicks Contractions

What It Is & Why It Happens

Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as “practice contractions,” are intermittent, non-productive contractions of the uterine muscle. Unlike true labor contractions, they are a normal physiological occurrence and do not lead to cervical effacement or dilation.

The primary function of Braxton Hicks contractions is to prepare the uterine muscle for the intense physical work of labor and to promote blood flow to the placenta. These contractions are typically triggered by physical activity, dehydration, a full bladder, maternal stress, fetal movement, or sexual intercourse (due to prostaglandins in semen and oxytocin released during orgasm). During a contraction, the abdomen feels very hard to the touch for about 30 to 60 seconds before relaxing.

Typical Timeline

Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as Week 6 of pregnancy, though they are usually not felt until the second trimester (around Week 20). They become increasingly frequent and noticeable during the third trimester (Weeks 28-40) as the uterus grows larger and more sensitive. In the final weeks of pregnancy, Braxton Hicks contractions may become stronger and occur more regularly, sometimes shifting into “false labor” or prodromal labor.

Safe Comfort Measures

If you experience Braxton Hicks contractions, you can help soothe the uterus with these safe remedies:

• Hydrate Immediately: Dehydration is the most common trigger for uterine irritability. Drink 16 to 24 ounces of water and rest.
• Change Your Activity: If you have been standing or walking, lie down on your left side. If you have been resting, get up and take a gentle walk. A change in position often stops the contractions.
• Rest and Breathe: Practice slow, deep diaphragmatic breathing. Take a warm (not hot) bath to help relax the abdominal muscles.
• Empty Your Bladder: A full bladder can place pressure on the uterus, triggering contractions. Urinate regularly.

When to Call the Doctor (Red Flags)

It is crucial to distinguish Braxton Hicks contractions from preterm labor (contractions before Week 37 that lead to cervical changes) or true labor. According to clinical guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), you should contact your healthcare provider or go to the hospital immediately if you experience signs of active labor or preterm labor.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek emergency care if you experience:

• Regular Contractions: Contractions that occur more than 4 times in an hour (before Week 37), or follow a regular, rhythmic pattern that increases in frequency and intensity over time.
• Lack of Relief: Contractions that do not improve or stop when you drink water, rest, or change positions.
• Vaginal Fluid or Bleeding: Any leak or gush of fluid from the vagina (indicating your water has broken) or bright red vaginal bleeding.
• Severe Abdominal Pain: Persistent, severe pain between contractions or a rigid, painful uterus.
• Pelvic Pressure: A strong feeling that the baby is pushing down, or low, dull backache that radiates to the front.
• The 5-1-1 Rule (at term): If you are at full term, call your doctor when contractions occur every 5 minutes, last for 1 minute, and have been occurring consistently for 1 hour.