How long do Braxton Hicks last?

A Braxton Hicks tightening often begins as a firm feeling across the abdomen and fades without developing a predictable rhythm. The timing can vary from one episode to the next. Activity, a full bladder, dehydration, or an uncomfortable position may make tightenings more noticeable. Duration by itself cannot identify the cause: the overall pattern, strength, associated pain, and other pregnancy symptoms matter too. True labour contractions tend to develop a repeated pattern and become progressively more demanding.

Use a clock or phone note to record the start and end of each tightening, then record the interval to the next one. Rest, change position, empty your bladder, and drink water if appropriate for you. Avoid strenuous activity while you see whether the pattern settles. Do not drive yourself if you feel unwell or are having significant pain. Share the record with your maternity team if episodes continue.

Call your maternity unit if tightenings continue despite rest and fluids, become regular, last longer over time, or are accompanied by period-like cramps, backache, pelvic pressure, bleeding, watery discharge, fever, or reduced fetal movement. Severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, or feeling acutely unwell requires emergency help. If you are unsure whether the pattern is changing, contact the maternity team rather than relying on a timer alone.

Ask how your maternity team defines a concerning pattern, which symptoms should prompt immediate assessment, and whether you should monitor hydration or urinary symptoms. Ask for the correct contact number for daytime and overnight advice.