What to know about Braxton Hicks contractions

During a tightening, your abdomen may feel firm and then soften again. The sensation can resemble menstrual cramps, pressure, or a band tightening across your belly. Braxton Hicks contractions do not follow a steady pattern: they may come and go, remain mild, or become noticeable after physical activity, sex, a full bladder, or not drinking enough fluids. They do not by themselves confirm that labour has started.

Unlike established labour, contractions that are practice tightenings commonly stay irregular and do not steadily become longer, stronger, and closer together. Personal sensations vary, so the pattern over time matters more than one isolated tightening.

Pause and notice when each tightening begins and ends. Drink water, empty your bladder, and change position; if you have been active, rest on your side. A warm shower may help you relax if your maternity team has said it is suitable for you. Avoid strenuous activity while you assess the pattern. If the tightenings settle, continue to monitor how you feel and mention recurring episodes at your next antenatal appointment.

Contact your maternity unit promptly if contractions become regular, increasingly painful, or stronger and closer together, or if they continue despite rest and fluids. Seek urgent advice for vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, severe or constant abdominal pain, fever, marked back or pelvic pressure, or reduced fetal movement. If these symptoms occur before your expected due period, they can be signs of preterm labour and need assessment.

Call emergency services if you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, feel faint, or cannot reach your maternity team. When in doubt, describe the timing and strength of the tightenings and follow the advice given by your pregnancy-care team.

Ask which number to call outside clinic hours, how your maternity unit wants you to time contractions, and which symptoms should bring you in for an examination. You can also ask whether your individual pregnancy history changes the advice about activity, hydration, or monitoring fetal movement.