When Do Braxton Hicks Contractions Start?

There is no particular month when everyone begins to feel them. They may become more noticeable as pregnancy advances, and some pregnant people feel very few or none.

Braxton Hicks contractions are temporary tightenings of the uterus. The abdomen may feel firm and then soften again. They tend to be irregular, do not keep getting closer together, and often settle after a change in activity, position or hydration.

Labour contractions usually develop a clearer pattern and become longer, stronger or closer together over time. Sensation alone cannot always distinguish the two, especially before full term, so pay attention to the pattern and any accompanying symptoms.

Pause and note when each tightening begins, how long it lasts and whether a pattern develops. Drink water, empty your bladder and change position. If you have been active, rest on your side; if you have been sitting for a while, gentle movement may help.

Contact your maternity team if you are unsure what you are feeling. Tell them how far along you are, whether the tightenings are becoming regular, and whether you have pain, pressure, fluid loss or bleeding.

Call your maternity unit promptly if contractions become regular or increasingly painful, particularly before 37 weeks. Also seek prompt assessment for vaginal bleeding, a gush or persistent trickle of fluid, new pelvic pressure, persistent lower back pain, or noticeably reduced fetal movement.

Severe constant abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or feeling seriously unwell requires urgent medical care. Use your local emergency service if you cannot reach your maternity team or travel safely.

Ask what contraction pattern should prompt a call at your stage of pregnancy, which maternity number to use outside clinic hours, and where to go for assessment. If you have previously had early labour or cervical problems, ask whether your personal instructions differ.