How to know the difference between Braxton Hicks and labour

Practice contractions often change with rest, hydration, movement or position and may be felt mainly across the front of the abdomen. Labour contractions usually continue despite those changes, develop a clearer rhythm and become harder to talk through. Labour may also involve a show, backache, pelvic pressure or waters breaking, although not everyone notices these signs in the same order.

Time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next, and record how long each lasts. Rest, drink water and change position while keeping track of the pattern. Follow the calling instructions from your maternity team because the right time to attend depends on your pregnancy, location and individual advice.

Call your maternity unit when contractions become regular and increasingly intense, or whenever you are unsure. Seek urgent advice for leaking fluid, vaginal bleeding, reduced fetal movement, severe constant pain, fever, or contractions and pressure before term. Preterm labour can begin with symptoms that resemble practice contractions.

Ask what contraction pattern means you should come in, how to respond if your waters break, and how to count fetal movements. Confirm whom to call outside office hours and mention any prior birth or pregnancy complication.