Is it Braxton Hicks contractions or labor?
Many parents experience Braxton Hicks contractions (sometimes called “false labor”) before actually going into labor. These early contractions serve an important purpose: they help your body prepare for labor. But they can also make it hard to tell when it’s truly time.
Our OB/GYNs (obstetricians and gynecologists) and midwives understand the wide range of sensations that come with pregnancy and labor. If you’re unsure whether it’s false vs real labor, we’re here to support you — whether that means confirming it’s time to meet your baby, easing your worries if it’s not, or simply giving you the knowledge to feel confident and prepared.
Understanding the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor can make all the difference when the moment arrives.
What are labor contractions?
Labor contractions happen when the muscles in your uterus, which is where your baby develops, repeatedly tighten and relax. This process opens up and thins your cervix (the lower part of your uterus that connects your uterus to your vagina) and helps push your baby down the birth canal.
How are Braxton Hicks contractions different?
“While Braxton Hicks contractions can feel similar to labor contractions, they don’t open and thin your cervix like labor contractions do,” says Dr. Roberto ‘Bert’ Morales, an OB/GYN at HCA Florida West Women’s Health. “You may never experience them, and that’s OK. Or you can start having them as early as the second trimester. It varies a lot from patient to patient.”
For most women, however, Braxton Hicks contractions feel like squeezing or like regular menstrual cramps. And usually, you can get relief when you change positions or walk.
The length and intensity of your contractions, as well as how much pain you’re in, can offer important clues as to whether you’re experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or real labor. If you’re in actual labor, your contractions will:
- Become stronger and more frequent
- Cause pain throughout your body, not just the front of your belly
- Continue to build and worsen despite changing positions or walking
- Last between 30 and 90 seconds
- Make it difficult to do everyday activities
- Make talking and walking difficult over time
“If you’re in real labor, you’ll likely experience additional symptoms, too,” Dr. Morales says.
As your cervix opens and thins, you may lose your mucus plug, a collection of mucus that helps prevent bacteria from reaching your baby. You may experience bleeding, which some people call the “bloody show.” Your water may break, too. This is when amniotic fluid, which surrounds your baby during pregnancy, comes out of your vagina in preparation for delivery. If your water breaks, call your OB/GYN or midwife — it’s time for labor and delivery.
Can I stop Braxton Hicks contractions?
Certain things can trigger false labor pains, including not drinking enough water, having sex, heavy exercise and having to pee. If your Braxton Hicks contractions are uncomfortable, and you’re sure they’re not real labor, try these tips for relief:
- Drink more fluids
- Empty your bladder
- Lie on your left side
- Rest and relax
Help is always close by when you still aren't sure
“You may know of someone who went to the hospital, thinking they’re in labor, only to be sent home because it’s not time,” Dr. Morales says. “It happens. But if you’re not sure if your contractions are true or false labor, contact your doctor. Just by talking on the phone, we can pretty easily assess if you’re in real labor or not. And if we’re unsure, we’ll have you come in.”
You can also use our Consult-A-Nurse® service for support, guidance and advice. Get advice you can trust directly from experienced, licensed nurses. Call (844) 70-NURSE ((844) 706-8773) anytime, day or night for answers and peace of mind.