Braxton Hicks contractions with twins

A practice contraction makes the uterus and bump feel firm before relaxing. It may appear unpredictably and settle with a change in activity, hydration, or rest. Having twins does not make the sensation alone a reliable test of whether labour has started.

Your maternity team considers the rhythm, strength, associated symptoms, stage of pregnancy, and your individual history. Preterm labour can present with regular contractions, period-like cramps, pelvic pressure, low backache, or a change in vaginal discharge, so a new persistent pattern merits early contact.

Stop what you are doing and time the tightenings from the beginning of one to the beginning of the next. Record whether they are gaining strength and whether rest and water alter them. Check both babies' movement against the pattern your maternity team has told you to expect.

Keep the contact number for your maternity assessment unit accessible and call if you are uncertain. Give the team your pregnancy stage, contraction timing, pain level, discharge or fluid changes, bleeding, and any change in movement. They can advise whether you need to attend without relying on a home interpretation.

Seek urgent maternity advice for regular or strengthening contractions, suspected leaking amniotic fluid, vaginal bleeding, reduced or changed fetal movement, constant abdominal pain, pronounced pelvic pressure, fever, or feeling unwell. Call promptly when you suspect labour before full term; waiting for severe pain can delay assessment.

Heavy bleeding, collapse, severe unremitting pain, breathing difficulty, or a feeling that birth is imminent requires emergency help. Arrange safe transport rather than driving if symptoms make that unsafe.

Ask what changes should prompt immediate contact in your twin pregnancy, where assessment takes place, and which number to use overnight. Clarify how to monitor each baby's movements and whether your history creates additional instructions.