Why do Braxton Hicks contractions happen?

The abdomen may feel firm and then soften. These tightenings are often irregular, do not steadily become closer together, and may settle when you rest, change position, drink fluids, or empty your bladder. They can feel uncomfortable, but the sensation varies between pregnancies.

Established labour tends to develop a pattern: contractions become more regular, stronger, and harder to talk through. A contraction pattern alone cannot confirm labour, so gestational age and other symptoms matter. Preterm Labour needs prompt assessment when contractions occur before term.

Pause strenuous activity, rest on your side, drink water, and notice whether the tightenings ease. Time several episodes from the start of one to the start of the next if they continue. Keep your maternity unit’s contact details available and follow any personalised advice from your pregnancy team.

Call promptly for regular or increasingly painful contractions, fluid leaking from the vagina, vaginal bleeding, reduced fetal movement, strong pelvic pressure, or persistent lower back pain. Contact the maternity team urgently if you are unsure whether symptoms could be Preterm Labour; do not wait for them to become severe.

Ask how your team wants you to time contractions, which symptoms require immediate contact, and how to tell whether fluid loss is amniotic fluid. Discuss your gestational age, previous labour history, and any individual risk factors.