How do you know if you're having Braxton Hicks contractions?

During a contraction, your abdomen can feel hard or pulled tight; between contractions it usually becomes softer. Practice contractions may stop or reduce after resting, changing position, drinking water, or emptying your bladder. Labour contractions tend to develop a more consistent rhythm and become more intense over time, although early labour can be difficult to identify at home. No single sensation confirms the cause.

Write down the start time and duration of each tightening for a while, and note whether walking, rest, fluids, or a position change affects them. Keep your maternity unit's contact details available. If you have been given individual instructions because of your pregnancy history, follow those instructions even when contractions seem mild. Do not wait for pain to become severe before asking for advice.

Contact your maternity unit urgently if contractions become regular or progressively stronger, or if you have bleeding, leaking fluid, pelvic pressure, persistent lower backache, fever, or reduced fetal movement. If these symptoms occur before your advised term, prompt assessment is particularly important because Preterm Labour may begin with regular tightenings or pressure.

What contraction pattern should prompt me to call? Should I come in if the tightenings settle but return later? How can I check fetal movement, and who should I contact if I am uncertain?