Starting about 6 weeks into your pregnancy, it’s highly possible that you will have what are called Braxton Hicks contractions. These are sporadic uterine contractions that begin early but can’t actually be felt until around the middle of your pregnancy. Some women feel them, and some women don’t. The reason why you should know about these kinds of contractions is because you’ll reach a point where you won’t be able to tell whether or not you’re going into labor! These contractions actually weaken as you get closer to your labor date, but around the middle of your pregnancy it can be mistaken for the symptoms of preterm labor. Knowing the difference will save you a lot of terror.
Even if you’re feeling what you imagine to be Braxton Hicks contractions, it’s always smart to contact your doctor anyhow. If these are indeed contractions for preterm labor, you certainly want to play it safe. This is especially true if you’re experiencing painful contractions more than 4 times per hour.
Actual pre-labor contractions involve sensations similar to Braxton Hicks, however the distinct difference is that real contractions cause your cervix to open and prepare itself for birth. One of the biggest indicators of whether or not you have real contractions or false ones is the growth of them.
With real contractions, they gradually grow in number, intensity, and pain. False contractions, on the other hand, tend to be sporadic, erratic, and do not grow in pain. There is a building tension and rhythm to the real contractions and this simply doesn’t happen with the fake ones.
If the false Braxton Hicks contractions are putting you in discomfort, there are a few things you can do to feel better. Often walking will provide relief from discomfort and pain. If you’re sitting or lying in a tricky position, try getting up and moving around, and often this will ease the contractions.
Taking a warm bath is another great way to get the contractions to ease. When your whole body can relax and expand, the contractions will calm and you should feel a lot better. Drinking some water is also a very good idea, because sometimes these contractions are caused by dehydration.
Also, do mindful exercises that involve slow, deep breathing. When you get in a comfortable place and consciously focus and calm yourself, you’re more likely to get the contractions to recede.
If your contractions are becoming more frequent and strong, then you know it’s time to call your doctor. Those are the symptoms of true labor, and you’ve got a baby on the way!
