Braxton Hicks contractions in a twin pregnancy

Practice contractions briefly make the uterus feel firm and commonly lack a progressive rhythm. Carrying twins can make stretching, pressure, and uterine tightening more noticeable, yet the feeling cannot reliably distinguish Braxton Hicks from labour. Contractions that grow stronger, last longer, or arrive progressively closer together are more concerning for labour.

Other clues matter. Low backache, pelvic pressure, menstrual-like cramps, a change in vaginal discharge, bleeding, or leaking fluid alongside tightenings should be reported. Your maternity team interprets these symptoms in the context of your pregnancy stage and individual care plan.

Stop strenuous activity, drink water, empty your bladder, and rest on your side while paying attention to the tightenings. Record when they begin, their duration, and whether the gaps shorten. Also check for fluid loss, bleeding, pressure, or a change in the babies' usual movements. Call your maternity unit if the sensations persist, recur in a pattern, or simply feel different from your usual tightenings.

Keep the maternity unit's contact details accessible and follow any personalised instructions you have received. A phone assessment may lead to monitoring or an examination; it is not possible to diagnose labour from timing alone.

Contact maternity triage immediately for vaginal bleeding, a gush or persistent leak of fluid, severe or constant abdominal pain, reduced or altered movement from either baby, fever, faintness, or regular painful contractions. Seek advice promptly if labour may be starting earlier than expected. If you cannot reach your usual team and symptoms are severe, use local emergency services.

Ask which number to call day or night, what contraction pattern should trigger a visit, and how to recognise a meaningful change in each baby's movements. It may also help to discuss the planned place and mode of birth, upcoming monitoring, and what would happen if labour began before the planned date.