Braxton Hicks contractions: when to worry

Practice contractions tighten the uterus without establishing the progressive pattern expected in labour. They may be uncomfortable, often vary in length and strength, and can settle after rest, hydration, emptying your bladder, or changing position. A change from your familiar pattern matters more than the label you give the sensation.

Contractions that become steadily stronger, closer together, and harder to talk or walk through may reflect labour. Before full term, a new regular pattern can be a presentation of preterm labour and should be assessed promptly.

Pause and note when each tightening begins, how long it lasts, whether the gap is shortening, and whether its strength is increasing. Drink water, empty your bladder, and try a different position if you otherwise feel well. Continue paying attention to your baby's usual movement pattern.

If the tightenings do not settle, call your maternity unit and describe the pattern, your stage of pregnancy, pain, discharge, fluid loss, bleeding, and fetal movement. Follow the unit's instructions rather than delaying care to keep timing contractions.

Seek urgent maternity advice for vaginal bleeding, a gush or persistent trickle of fluid, reduced or changed fetal movement, severe or constant abdominal pain, fever, faintness, or contractions that are regular and intensifying. Contact the maternity unit promptly if you may be in labour before full term, even when the discomfort is mild.

Use emergency services if pain is extreme, bleeding is heavy, you feel very unwell, or birth seems imminent. Do not drive yourself if you are faint or unable to travel safely.

Ask which unit to call after hours, what contraction pattern should trigger a call at your stage of pregnancy, and how to respond if your waters may have broken. Also clarify how your personal pregnancy history changes the plan.