How long are Braxton Hicks contractions?

A practice contraction may feel like the womb becoming firm and then relaxing. Episodes can be short, unevenly spaced, and uncomfortable rather than progressively painful. They may settle when you rest, drink water, empty your bladder, or change position. A longer contraction, or a series of tightenings, needs attention to the full pattern rather than one reading.

Labour is more likely when contractions continue, become regular, grow stronger, and leave less time between them. Cervical change is what confirms labour, so timing contractions cannot replace an examination. Before full term, contractions accompanied by pressure, backache, bleeding, fluid loss, or altered discharge may indicate a need for assessment.

Use a clock or phone timer to record when each contraction begins and ends, then note the gap between starts. Rest on your side, drink fluids, and change position. Notice fetal movement according to the instructions you were given. Keep your maternity unit's number nearby, and share the record if you call.

Contact your maternity unit for regular painful contractions, vaginal bleeding, suspected fluid leakage, reduced fetal movement, fever, or persistent abdominal or back pain. If you are before full term, call even when contractions are mild or irregular. Seek emergency assistance for heavy bleeding, collapse, or severe breathing difficulty.

Ask how your team wants contractions timed, which pattern requires attendance, what to do if fluid leaks, and how to check fetal movement safely.