Your uterus is a muscle that grows rapidly as pregnancy progresses, which can result in cramping. This cramping can often feel like labor contractions, but how do you really know?
Dominique Boadwine, MD, Avera OB/GYN at Avera Medical Group Obstetrics & Gynecology, provides insights into distinguishing between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions.
What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions, often referred to as false labor or practice contractions, start as early as 20 weeks into pregnancy and can occur during your second (14 to 27 weeks) or third trimesters (28-40 weeks). Braxton Hicks contractions do not mean something is wrong.
These sensations are typically described as feeling similar to menstrual cramping, though the intensity of the pain can vary among women. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, occurring every few minutes or even stretching to 20-minute intervals. The exact cause of these contractions is unknown, but some triggers can include:
- Dehydration
- Insufficient or intense physical activity
- A full bladder
- Fetal movement
Difference Between Braxton Hicks and True Labor Contractions
Understanding the important indicators between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions is crucial for knowing when to seek medical evaluation. There are a few keyways to tell the difference.
- Duration and regularity: Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, whereas true labor contractions become progressively more regular. Typically, true labor contractions will come in consistent intervals, such as 5 minutes, and continue to increase in intensity.
- Location of pain: The pain from the Braxton Hicks contractions will tend to be felt more in the front of the uterus. True labor contractions, however, often wrap around the body from your back to your stomach.
- Relief measures: Braxton Hicks contractions can often be alleviated with rest, hot baths or hydration, whereas true labor contractions will continue to persist regardless of these measures.
“If at any time a patient is concerned about frequent contractions, or if they are having other symptoms, like vaginal blood discharge in addition to the cramping, they should notify their provider immediately,” said Boadwine.
If your contractions are occurring more regularly and they continue for an hour or more, this may indicate true labor. Contact your provider to know for sure.
