What is false contractions or Braxton Hicks?

When should you worry if you feel contractions much before your delivery date?

Debjani Arora | Published: January 6, 2016 6:12 pm

False contractions or Braxton Hicks contraction is common during pregnancy, especially during second or third trimester. The reason it is called ‘false’ contraction is because it gives you a feel of how the contractions might be during labour (though labour contractions are going to be even more intense). It is also a sign that your body is preparing for the real action about to happen soon. These contractions can at times be uncomfortable, but it doesn’t cause labour or opening of the cervix. So take a deep breath and relax. Here are six signs that say you are ready for labour.

How to identify a false contraction from a real one?

Here are a few ways to identify one

It comes much before your scheduled delivery date and is not painful or intense.
It doesn’t happen at regular intervals.
It is felt on the front of the abdomen or pelvis.
It doesn’t get worse when you walk.
It tends to get lighter and diminish with time.
It stops once you change position or take a stroll.

What should you do?

If you are experiencing false contractions, here are a few things you can do

Take a walk or lie down, but don’t panic.
Go for a warm bath and listen to soothing music. Distract yourself.
Try and get some sleep.

When to worry?

Contact your doctor:

If your contractions are strong enough and come back after every five minutes
If you have vaginal bleeding or discharge as well
If you feel less than ten kicks of your baby in two hours.
If you are in your 37th week and the contractions seem to be real
If you are unable to walk while the contractions set in and it doesn’t go away within 15 or 20 minutes.

Image source: Shutterstock

Published: January 6, 2016 6:12 pm

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