How long do Braxton Hicks contractions last?

These tightenings may feel like the womb is becoming firm and then relaxing. One may be followed by another after an unpredictable gap, and the pattern can stop for a while. They are often uncomfortable rather than steadily painful. As pregnancy advances, they may become more noticeable, especially after activity, sex, a full bladder or later in the day. Length alone cannot confirm whether labour has started; the spacing, trend, associated symptoms and stage of pregnancy matter too.

Pause and time several tightenings from the start of one to the start of the next. Rest on your side, change position, empty your bladder and sip water. A warm shower may help you relax if your maternity team has said this is suitable. Keep track of whether the sensations fade or become longer, stronger and closer together. Do not rely on a home test to decide whether you need assessment.

Contact your maternity unit promptly if contractions become regular or intensify, or if they do not settle with rest and fluids. Seek urgent advice for vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, reduced fetal movement, severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, or pressure and backache before full term. These signs can occur with conditions such as preterm labour, so explain how long the contractions last and how close together they are.

Ask how your maternity service wants you to time contractions, which number to call outside office hours, and what changes in fetal movement or fluid loss should prompt immediate assessment.