Braxton Hicks vs. Real Contractions

What is Braxton Hicks

Every mother and baby are different. Braxton Hicks is present in all pregnancies, but may be experienced differently by each woman. Braxton hicks are essentially practice contractions that prepare your body for the real labor process, and they may help to soften and thin the cervix (effacement).  Braxton Hicks can begin as early as the second trimester and last until real labor begins.

Several things that may trigger Braxton hicks include:

-dehydration

-extraneous activity/ heavy lifting

-holding urination

-having sex

The Difference Between Braxton Hicks and Real Contractions?

So, do you know how to differentiate between Braxton hicks and real contractions?

Braxton Hicks

Braxton Hicks tend to be irregular, unpredictable, and not as intense. Braxton Hicks can be alleviated by emptying your bladder, eating, having a glass of water, prenatal massage, relaxing bath, or changing your position (walking/ lying down).

Real Contractions

Conversely, contractions will be timelier, coming in regular intervals and lasting approximately 60-90 seconds per contraction. Real contractions become stronger and longer in duration, becoming closer together, and nothing you do will subside them; walking, talking, and laughing will become more difficult. If your contractions are roughly 4-5 minutes apart and happening 4-5 times within an hour span or if your water breaks in either a sudden gush or a slow trickle you are in active labor and should head to the labor and delivery unit or call your midwife.

Braxton Hicks is a normal and a natural occurrence in pregnancy. To help differentiate, it may be helpful to time your contractions out. Try tracking your contractions by writing down the start of one contraction to the next, and the level of pain you feel for 1 hour. These notes will be helpful to bring to the hospital as well.

Call your healthcare provider or go to the ER any time you experience the following:

-bright red vaginal bleeding

-continuous leaking of vaginal fluid

-strong consistent contractions every 4-5 minutes for an hour span

-contractions unable to walk through

-reduced fetal movement; less than 10 movements within an hour span

What do Contractions Feel Like?

Furthermore, contractions come in waves. When the contractions begin it may feel similar to your menstrual cycle with cramping in your lower stomach, and you may also have dull lower back pain. In the beginning your contractions will be short and approximately 30 minutes apart, but as they continue they will become stronger and closer together, lasting approximately a minute and coming every 2-3 minutes. If you experience signs of labor before approaching 37 weeks gestation, you should head to the hospital immediately to ensure optimal health and wellbeing of both mother and baby.

How to Prepare for Labor?

Consider taking a childbirth education course to help inform you on the labor process and techniques to cope with labor pains.  There are various classes differing in focus and philosophy. 

Types of Childbirth Classes:

• Lamaze- Does not support or discourage the use of medicated pain relief options, and focuses on building confidence and informing expectant mothers about their options so that they can make informed decisions for their  labor and delivery plan. These classes typically cover massage and relaxation techniques, breathing techniques, and labor/ birthing positions.
• Hypnobirth- Takes a more holistic approach and focuses on deep relaxation techniques to cope with labor and birth. This class teaches self- hypnosis techniques to relieve fear and anxiety that can contribute to pain.
• Bradley Method- Focuses on techniques to help you through all stages of labor, what to expect if things don’t go according to plan and the support role of your partner

As you approach your big day, be sure to discuss with your healthcare provider what labor looks like and how to know when you should go to the hospital. If you have any questions after business hours most insurances have an after hours nurse line that you can call, be sure to check the back of your insurance card or call member services for further information.

As always, well wishes to you and your family and congratulations on your new addition!

-Jas the Doula