Braxton Hicks contractions happen when the muscles of your womb tighten.
Known as false labour, they are more common during the last few months of your pregnancy, but can occur at any time.
Braxton Hicks are practice contractions, but they are not labour contractions, and they are more uncomfortable than painful.
Braxton Hicks contractions vs labour
Unlike labour contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions:
- vary in length and strength
- happen infrequently, are unpredictable and non-rhythmic
- are more uncomfortable than painful
- do not increase in frequency, duration or intensity
- lessen and then disappear, only to reappear at some time in the future.
How are Braxton Hicks contractions treated?
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There is no treatment for Braxton Hicks contractions. But there are things you can do to ease them, such as:
- changing position
- lying down if you’ve been very active
- going for a walk if you’ve been sitting down for a long time
- relaxing, such as taking a warm bath, having a massage, or having a nap
- drinking some water to rehydrate.
When to get medical help
You should always trust your gut and seek medical advice if you are unsure about anything during your pregnancy.
You should also contact your midwife or maternity hospital if:
- your contractions are becoming stronger or more intense
- your contractions are coming closer together
- you have fluid gushing or leaking from your vagina
- you have any vaginal bleeding
- there is a change or reduction in your baby’s movements.