How are braxton hicks contractions?

A Braxton Hicks tightening can make the abdomen feel firm or tense before it relaxes. It may be uncomfortable, but it commonly stays irregular and does not steadily become longer, stronger or closer together. Sensations vary, and it can be difficult to tell practice tightenings from labour by feeling alone. Before the stage of pregnancy when birth is expected, repeated tightenings may also be a sign of preterm labour and should not be dismissed.

Pause and note when each tightening starts, how long it lasts and whether the pattern changes. Rest, drink water, empty your bladder and change position or activity. A warm shower may feel soothing if your maternity team has said it is suitable. Avoid strenuous activity while you assess the pattern. If the tightenings continue despite these measures, contact your maternity unit for specific advice rather than relying on a label.

Contact your maternity service urgently for regular or painful tightenings, vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, persistent lower back or pelvic pressure, or reduced fetal movement. Seek immediate help for severe pain, heavy bleeding, collapse or difficulty breathing. If you are before term and have repeated contractions, ask to be assessed for preterm labour even if the discomfort is manageable.

Ask how to time contractions, which number to call after hours and whether your pregnancy history changes the threshold for assessment. Ask how to distinguish fluid leakage from normal discharge and what fetal movement pattern is expected for you.