How to Tell Braxton Hicks from Contractions?

Braxton Hicks are tightening episodes that prepare the uterus and can feel uncomfortable, but they often remain unpredictable. Labour contractions develop a pattern: the interval between them shortens, each tightening lasts longer, and the sensation becomes more intense. They may begin as backache, pelvic pressure, or period-like cramps. The pattern is more useful than one isolated tightening, and some people find it difficult to tell the difference without an assessment.

Note when each tightening starts, how long it lasts, and the time until the next one. Drink water, empty your bladder, rest, and change position if comfortable. Keep your maternity unit or clinician's contact details available. Do not rely on timing alone if you have fluid leakage, bleeding, reduced fetal movement, or significant pain; contact your maternity team for individual guidance.

Contact your maternity team when contractions become regular and increasingly strong, your waters may have broken, or you have vaginal bleeding, severe or constant abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement. If you are before 37 weeks of pregnancy, repeated tightenings, pelvic pressure, backache, fluid leakage, or a change in discharge can be signs of preterm labour and need prompt assessment. Seek emergency help if you feel seriously unwell or have heavy bleeding.

How should I time my contractions, and which pattern means I should come in? Could my symptoms suggest preterm labour? What should I do if my waters break, movements change, or I am unsure whether the pain is labour?