What Braxton Hicks contractions feel like

The sensation may be uncomfortable, mildly cramp-like or simply noticeable when you place a hand on your bump. Its position and intensity can vary between episodes.

Practice tightenings tend to be irregular and do not become progressively longer, stronger and closer together. Labour contractions are more likely to develop a continuing rhythm and intensify, although sensations alone cannot always distinguish them.

Braxton Hicks contractions tighten the uterine muscle but do not by themselves establish that the cervix is opening. Preterm labour can present with regular or frequent tightenings, pelvic pressure, a persistent low backache or a change in vaginal discharge, and it needs prompt assessment.

Pause and notice whether the episodes settle or develop a pattern. Change position, rest after activity, take a gentle walk after sitting for a long time, empty your bladder, and drink water unless your maternity team has limited your fluids.

Keep track of when each tightening starts, how long it lasts and whether it becomes harder to talk or move through. Use the contact instructions from your own maternity unit if you remain unsure; assessment is safer than trying to label a changing pattern at home.

Call urgently if your waters may have broken, you have vaginal bleeding, your baby's movements are reduced or different, pain is severe or constant, or you feel unwell. Seek immediate maternity advice if you may be in labour before your pregnancy has reached term.

Also contact the unit when contractions become regular, stronger or closer together, or when rest and hydration do not settle them. A clinician may need to assess your cervix, monitor the contractions and check your baby's wellbeing.

Ask which symptoms should trigger a call at your stage of pregnancy, where to go outside clinic hours, and how your maternity unit wants contractions timed. If you have had earlier pregnancy complications, ask whether your personal threshold for assessment is different.