Braxton Hicks or The Real Deal? Your Guide to Understanding Contractions

Preggy Plus
Jul 30
3 min read

As you approach your due date, it's natural for every new sensation to bring a wave of questions. The most common one from expectant moms is, "Is this it? How do I know if I'm really in labor?"

It’s an exciting and sometimes confusing time but understanding the signals your body is sending can bring you peace of mind. Think of this as a clear and simple conversation to help you distinguish between "practice" contractions (Braxton Hicks) and the contractions of true labor.

What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Braxton Hicks are essentially your uterine muscles doing a "warm-up" for the main event of labor. They are a normal and healthy part of pregnancy that can begin as early as your second trimester. While they can sometimes be surprising, they are not actually causing your cervix to dilate or open.

The keys signs of Braxton Hicks are:

Irregular: They don’t have a consistent pattern. You might have a few in an hour, and then none for the rest of the day.
Inconsistent in Strength: They usually feel like a mild-to-moderate tightening of your abdomen and do not get progressively stronger.
Temporary: They often disappear if you change your activity. If you’re sitting, try walking. If you’re walking, try sitting down and drinking a glass of water. This often causes them to ease up.
Located in the Front: The sensation is typically felt only in the front of your abdomen.

What Do True Labor Contractions Feel Like?

True labor contractions is your body’s way to help bring your baby into the world. Their purpose is to open your cervix, and unlike Braxton Hicks, they will not stop until the job is done. They follow a clear and progressive pattern.

The key signs of true labor contractions are:

Progressive: This is the most important word. True contractions get stronger, last longer, and become closer together over time.
Consistent Pattern: They arrive at regular intervals. You can time them and will notice the pattern becoming more predictable (e.g., every 10 minutes, then every 8, then every 5).
Persistent: They do not go away with movement, rest, or hydration. In fact, activity may make them feel even stronger.
Radiating Sensation: They often begin as an ache in your lower back that wraps around to the front of your abdomen, or vice-versa. The sensation involves your whole uterus.

What to Do When Contractions Start

Hydrate and Move: Drink a large glass of water and change your position. If the tightening eases up, it’s likely Braxton Hicks.
Start Timing: If they continue, grab a notebook or a phone app. Note the time each contraction starts and how long it lasts. This data will be very helpful when you speak to your provider.
The 5-1-1 Rule (A Helpful Guideline): Many doctors and midwives advise calling when your contractions are coming every 5 minutes, lasting for 1 minute each, for at least 1 hour. NOTE: Please follow the specific instructions given to you by your personal healthcare provider.

Most importantly, trust your instincts. You know your body better than anyone. There is no harm in calling your doctor or midwife for guidance. They are your partners in this journey and would much rather you call when you're unsure than have you worry at home. If you're approaching your due date, understanding these signs is simply one more way you are preparing to welcome your little one. You're doing great mama.