Sometimes it's hard to tell when labor begins. Don't hesitate to call your health care provider if you're confused about whether you're in labor or if you are experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions.
Preterm labor can be especially sneaky. If you have any signs of labor before 37 weeks, especially if you also experience vaginal spotting, consult your health care provider.
If you arrive at the hospital in false labor, don't feel embarrassed or frustrated. Think of it as a practice run. The real thing is likely on its way.
Amy Brien, M. Request an Appointment Patient Online Services. Plainview Red Wing Sherburn St. James St. Peter Waseca Waterville Wells Zumbrota. Iowa Decorah Lake Mills. View map. Posted By. Here are answers to 5 common questions about Braxton Hicks contractions: 1. What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like?
These are Braxton-Hicks contractions, sometimes known as prodromal, or false, labor. These contractions can begin around 6 weeks into gestation, but they are not usually noticeable until the second or third trimester. While the trigger for these contractions is unclear, their function is to prepare the body for labor. Braxton-Hicks contractions tend to occur sporadically.
They vary in frequency, duration, and intensity, but they usually occur more frequently during later stages of pregnancy. People often mistake Braxton-Hicks contractions for real labor contractions, especially when they occur in later stages of pregnancy. Here are some key differences between the two:.
Learning to tell the difference between types of contraction can help a person know when to contact a doctor. However, consult a doctor if there is any uncertainty. Contractions are likely to be real if they occur in a regular pattern and gradually increase in frequency. Real contractions also tend to become painful, and the pain often spreads across the abdomen and lower back.
In the buildup to labor, the baby may move down toward the cervix. This can happen from a few weeks to a few hours before labor. If regular, painful contractions occur before the third trimester , it is important to contact a doctor.
This could be a sign of preterm birth. Real contractions are a sign of labor. Braxton-Hicks contractions are not, and they do not lead to birth.
Real contractions are generally more intense and follow a consistent pattern, while Braxton-Hicks contractions do not. A woman usually feels pain from real contractions around the abdomen, lower back, and sometimes in the legs. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Parenthood Pregnancy Braxton-Hicks Contractions vs. Real Contractions. Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, Ph. What are Braxton-Hicks contractions?
What are real labor contractions? Real contractions that begin before the 37th week can be classified as premature labor. You may experience fluid leaking from your vagina. How can you tell the difference? As early as the second trimester, but more often in the third trimester After your 37th week of pregnancy if they come earlier, this can be a sign of preterm labor How often do they come?
From time to time, in no regular pattern At regular intervals, getting closer and closer together in time How long do they last? From less than 30 seconds to 2 minutes From 30 to 70 seconds How do they feel? Like a tightening or squeezing, but not usually painful Like a tightening or cramping that comes in waves, starting in the back and moving to the front, getting more intense and painful over time.
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