Word of Mom | Preconception

Braxton Hicks vs Real Contractions

Braxton hicks vs real contractions can be really confusing. I never had a hard time trying to figure out the difference between braxton hjcks vs real contractions. With Annabelle I had braxton hick contractions all the time and I never knew if I was in labor or not. My doctor just said that I was having more contractions because I was busy chasing around a two year old. Braxton hick contractions aren't the real thing. Braxton hick contractions are a tightening of the uterus. They don't actually cause your cervix to dilate. They are just helping your body prepare for childbirth. Most women experience braxton hick contractions in their 28th week, while some have experienced them as early as the second month. Usually with your second pregnancy braxton hick contractions are stronger the second time. Here are some of the differences between braxton hicks vs real contractions.

  • Consider what brought on your contractions. I use to see if I was doing a lot of activity. For instance chasing around Elijah, cleaning or just being to busy. Even having a full bladder will cause braxton hick contractions
  • Make sure you time your contractions. I had some contractions for an hour and they were five minutes apart but they ended up going away. Real contractions wont go away the more you have the more closer they will get. Then that is real contractions. I always felt like I was going into labor because I had frequent braxton hicks
  • Change positions, going for a walk helps. When I was in real labor with Annabelle, walking, moving positions, doing anything to get my mind off of the contractions didn't make them go away
  • Figure out what your pain level is at. Braxton hicks feel like a tightening of the uterus and usually are uncomfortable. Not in all cases though. I had some that were pretty painful. If they are painful, keep a close eye on your contractions and see if they get more painful
  • Last but not least, are your contractions becoming stronger.Are your contractions intensifying. Braxton hick contractions will go away but real contractions wont. They only get worse
  • Hope these are some helpful tips on determining the difference between braxton hicks and real contractions. Main thing, if you are ever concerned contact your doctor. Never feel stupid about bothering them. That was one thing I struggled with. You and your baby's safety is much more important.

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