How to get rid of Braxton Hicks contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are practice tightenings of the womb. They may feel like the abdomen becoming firm and then relaxing. They are commonly irregular, do not steadily build in strength, and may stop after activity changes. Dehydration, a full bladder, physical activity, or sex can make them more noticeable. The sensation can still be uncomfortable, especially later in pregnancy, and it can be difficult to distinguish practice contractions from labour without an examination.

Pause strenuous activity and rest on your side. Sip water and use the bathroom. If you have been sitting for a long time, try a gentle change of position; if you have been active, allow your body time to recover. A warm shower may relax you, provided the water is comfortable and you do not feel faint. Notice whether the tightenings become less frequent and less intense. Do not take medicines or use supplements to stop contractions unless a maternity clinician has advised you to do so.

Contact your maternity unit urgently if tightenings become regular, increasingly painful, or do not settle with rest, or if you have vaginal bleeding, fluid leaking, pelvic pressure, back pain, fever, or reduced fetal movement. Before the stage of pregnancy when birth is expected, these symptoms can indicate preterm labour and should be assessed promptly. If you are unsure whether the pattern is changing, call for advice rather than trying to manage it alone.

Ask what contraction pattern should prompt a call for your stage of pregnancy, how to monitor fetal movement, and which pain-relief options are suitable for you. You can also ask how your maternity unit assesses possible preterm labour.