What Are Braxton-Hicks Contractions Like?

Braxton-Hicks contractions were first coined in the 1800s by Dr. John Braxton-Hicks. These contractions are also known as ‘false labor’. When you have a Braxton-Hicks contraction it is going to feel very crampy, similar to a menstrual cramp. These contractions can last anywhere from 30 – 60 seconds. But note that the interval between these contractions is not going to be the same every time you experience one of these contractions. This is one reason it is not true labor.

So, you might have a 30-second contraction that is a little bit crampy and then in 5 minutes have another contraction. Then perhaps 20 minutes later you will have another contraction. Then all of a sudden they stop. You might even feel a little more cramping later in the day that lasts a few seconds and then goes away. Inconsistency is a key indicator for Braxton-Hicks contractions.

Braxton-Hicks contractions are not predictable, they are not frequent, and they are not painful. You are going to have some uncomfortable feelings, but the feeling should not increase to pain. Braxton-Hicks contractions can happen in your second trimester but they most often occur in the third trimester. Your body is practicing for labor! Your body needs to know how to gear up for that big day when true labor hits… and you need to birth your baby.

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What can trigger Braxton-Hicks contractions?

1. Dehydration

Your uterus is a muscle. So, just like when you are dehydrated and your legs start to cramp a bit your uterus can do the same. If you start to feel Braxton-Hicks contractions then drink a lot of water.

We recommend that you drink at least 100 ounces of water per day when you are pregnant. That is equal to roughly 12 glasses of water.

2. Intercourse

Another thing that can trigger Braxton-Hicks contractions is intercourse. When the man ejaculates that sperm contains prostaglandins, which can cause your uterus to contract. Those Braxton-Hicks contractions might ask you to take a break for a little bit. Sorry Honey. Talk to him about what you are going through. I think communication will help him to be understanding.

3. Activity

Activity is the third reason you could be having Braxton-Hicks contractions. If you are exercising or doing a lot of walking then you might experience even more Braxton-Hicks contractions. Sit down, rest, take a bath, relax, and see if they go away.

Though Braxton-Hicks don’t mean true labor, you are heading towards that day (your due date)! I recommend that you begin preparing for labor and so you can smoothly and successfully give birth vaginally.

Do you want some help making a plan for birth? I have created my FREE Natural Birth Workbook just for you. This 4 Step Process is a great start if you are considering a med-free birth. Download below…