Experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions is completely normal, as is not experiencing them. Vhi midwife, Maria Jackson Merry, explains what Braxton Hicks contractions feel like and how they differ from labour contractions. We also discuss common triggers and some methods for relieving the sensation.

What are Braxton Hicks contractions and how do they differ from real labour?

Braxton Hicks contractions happen when the muscles of the womb contract and relax during pregnancy. It’s sometimes also called false labour, but both mean the same thing. They’re completely normal, and not every pregnant woman will feel them. The contractions are like a practice run in many ways, but they don’t indicate labour. Labour contractions last about 60-90 seconds and come at regular intervals that get closer together over time. Braxton Hicks contractions only last between 30 and 45 seconds and happen less frequently than labour contractions do. They’re also irregular, with no pattern ─ they come and go at random. It’s important to call out that neither the presence or absence of Braxton Hicks reflects the health or progression of your pregnancy, so you don’t need to worry if you have them or if you don’t.

What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like, and how can someone tell if what they’re feeling is normal?

Braxton Hicks feel like a tightening, squeezing or hardening sensation to the abdomen. They’re uncomfortable and can frighten an expectant mother if they haven’t experience them before, but they shouldn't be painful. Some women say the pain is a bit like period cramps and that the onset can take their breath away for a few seconds. If you’re feeling pain or simply don’t feel at ease about what you’re experiencing, reach out to your midwife or healthcare professional for peace of mind.

When do Braxton Hicks typically start during pregnancy, and how often do they occur?

It’s during the second or third trimester that most women will start to have Braxton Hicks contractions, and as I mentioned above, they’re unpredictable and have no pattern. They might happen only a few times during your second trimester but become more frequent in your third, even happening a few times in a day.

Are there any common triggers for Braxton Hicks?

Yes, certain things are known to trigger Braxton Hicks for some women, or make them feel more intense:

• A full bladder can press on your uterus and cause it to contract or cramp, triggering Braxton Hicks.  
• Intercourse stimulates the uterus and causes natural tightening that can trigger contractions.
• Being dehydrated is a big one because it can make the uterus irritated and sensitive. Think of how we can get leg cramps when we’re dehydrated ─ it’s a similar response in the uterus.
• Exercise and activity are common triggers.
• Tiredness and stress, which of course can be very common during pregnancy!
• As your baby grows and gets stronger, their movements can be a trigger too.

What are some effective ways to ease discomfort from Braxton Hicks?

The remedies for Braxton Hicks are straightforward and mostly involve some movement. If you’ve been sitting or lying in a certain position for a while, try shifting positions or getting up to walk and stretch. The same goes if you’ve been standing and haven’t taken a seat for a while. If you’re being active or exercising and feel contractions, take a break to let them ease. We know that tiredness and stress are triggers, so naps, warm baths or showers and massages are your friends! Keep well hydrated too because your body needs plenty of water during pregnancy for all the work it’s doing.

When should someone contact their midwife or doctor about Braxton Hicks?

If you’re unsure or worried about what you’re feeling at any stage of your pregnancy, reach out to your healthcare provider for peace of mind. Some women worry they’re being too cautious or wasting people’s time ─ this is not the case! You’re simply being careful, and your healthcare provider will be happy to answer any questions you have.

Aside from that, these factors are worth connecting with your midwife or healthcare provider on:

• If you're less than 37 weeks pregnant and aren’t certain what you’re feeling is Braxton Hicks. We need to check for signs of pre-term labour in these instances, just in case.
• If the contractions are lasting longer than 30-45 seconds.
• If they happen more frequently or start happening closer together each time.
• If they start to develop a pattern.
• If they started off feeling like a tightening sensation, but now they're becoming painful and don’t go away with the kind of self-help measures I mentioned above.

Regardless of whether you’re feeling contractions or not, you should get checked out by your healthcare provider if:

• You have any kind of vaginal bleeding.
• You think your waters may have broken.
• You're worried about your baby's movement

Are Braxton Hicks more common in certain pregnancies?

Yes, Braxton Hicks are more common in subsequent pregnancies and multiples, like twins. In subsequent pregnancies, your abdominal muscles have already been stretched in a previous pregnancy, so they can be more sensitive. This increased sensitivity can make them more reactive to triggers for Braxton Hicks. But the good thing is, they can be easier to recognise in a subsequent pregnancy, as women become more attuned to the sensation. When it comes to twins or triplets, there’s a bigger stretch on the uterus, and it’s under more pressure. This can increase the chances of Braxton Hicks.

Remember, you don't have to experience Braxton Hicks for your uterus to know what to do when the big day comes! Our bodies are amazing, and yours will know what to do whether you’ve experienced Braxton Hicks or not.
 

Key Takeaways

• Braxton Hicks are normal and can start in the second or third trimester – but not everyone experiences them.
• They feel like tightening or squeezing in the abdomen, and while uncomfortable, they’re usually not painful.
• Labour contractions differ by being longer (60–90 seconds), regular, and increasing in intensity – Braxton Hicks are shorter (30–45 seconds) and irregular.
• Common triggers include a full bladder, dehydration, exercise, stress, baby movements, and intercourse.
• To ease discomfort, try changing positions, walking, resting, taking a warm bath, or staying hydrated.
• Contact your midwife or GP if contractions become painful, frequent, patterned, or if you’re under 37 weeks and unsure what you’re feeling.
• Braxton Hicks are more common in subsequent pregnancies and multiples, but not having them is also completely normal.
• Your body knows what to do – Braxton Hicks are not a requirement for a healthy labour.
   

This content is for information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from your GP or an appropriate medical professional if you have concerns about your health or before commencing a new healthcare regime. If you believe that you are experiencing a medical emergency call 999 / 112 or seek emergency assistance immediately.