Dehydration and Braxton Hicks contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular tightenings of the womb that can occur during pregnancy. They may feel like the abdomen becomes firm and then relaxes. Fluid loss, a busy day, a full bladder or physical activity can make these tightenings more apparent. They commonly ease when you change position, rest, empty your bladder and drink. This pattern does not confirm that labour has or has not started, so timing, strength and associated symptoms matter.

Stop strenuous activity and rest on your side in a comfortable, cool place. Sip water regularly unless your maternity team has given you a fluid restriction. Note whether the tightenings become less frequent after rest and fluids. Do not use alcohol or unadvised medicines to manage them. If vomiting or diarrhoea is preventing drinking, contact your maternity team because fluid loss can progress quickly in pregnancy.

Contact your maternity unit promptly for regular or increasingly painful contractions, vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, reduced fetal movement, severe abdominal pain, fever or a severe headache. Seek urgent help if you feel faint, confused, very weak or cannot keep fluids down. If you are unsure whether the pattern is Braxton Hicks or labour, call for advice rather than relying on home observation alone.

Ask how much to drink for your pregnancy, how to time contractions, and which local maternity number to use if the tightenings return or change.