What triggers Braxton Hicks contractions

Braxton Hicks are practice tightenings of the womb. They can become more noticeable after walking, exercise, a busy day, sexual activity, touching the abdomen or needing to empty the bladder. Some occur without an obvious trigger. They tend to be irregular, vary in strength and do not steadily become closer together. The sensation may be uncomfortable, but it should not be used alone to decide whether labour has started.

Stop and rest, drink water, empty your bladder and change position. Notice when each tightening starts, how long it lasts and whether the pattern changes. A warm shower may help if your maternity team has said it is suitable for you. Avoid strenuous activity until the tightenings settle. If you are unsure, call your maternity unit and describe the pattern, pregnancy stage, pain, fluid loss and fetal movements.

Contact your maternity team urgently for regular or painful contractions that continue, contractions before your expected time, fluid leaking, vaginal bleeding, pelvic pressure, back pain, fever or reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for contractions to become severe if you are worried about preterm labour. Seek emergency help for severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting or serious breathing difficulty.

Ask how to time tightenings, which symptoms mean you should attend hospital, and what activity or hydration advice fits your pregnancy. Ask whom to call outside routine appointment hours.