What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic uterine contractions that start about 6 weeks into your pregnancy, although you won't be able to feel them that early. You probably won't start to notice them until sometime after mid-pregnancy, if you notice them at all. (Some women don't.) They get their name from John Braxton Hicks, an English doctor who first described them in 1872.

As your pregnancy progresses, Braxton Hicks contractions tend to come somewhat more often, but until you get to your last few weeks, they'll probably remain infrequent, irregular, and essentially painless. Sometimes, though, Braxton Hicks contractions are hard to distinguish from early signs of preterm labor.

Play it safe and don't try to make the diagnosis yourself. If you haven't hit 37 weeks yet and you're having more than four contractions in an hour — or you have any other signs of preterm labor (see below) — call your caregiver immediately.

By the time you're within a couple of weeks of your due date, your cervix has likely begun to "ripen" or gradually soften up in preparation for labor. Your contractions may get more intense and more frequent, and they may cause some discomfort. Unlike the earlier painless and sporadic Braxton Hicks contractions, which caused no obvious cervical changes, these contractions may help your cervix thin out (efface) and maybe even open up (dilate) a bit. This period is sometimes referred to as pre-labor.


What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like?

When you have contractions, whether Braxton Hicks or true labor, you'll feel your uterus, lower abdominal area, or groin tighten or squeeze, and then relax. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and usually don't hurt, though they may be uncomfortable and occasionally are strong and painful.

How can I tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions?

In the days or weeks before labor, Braxton Hicks contractions may intermittently become rhythmic, relatively close together, and even painful, possibly fooling you into thinking you're in labor. But unlike true labor, during this so-called false labor the contractions don't grow consistently longer, stronger, and closer together.

What can I do if my Braxton Hicks contractions are uncomfortable or painful?


  • Take a warm bath to help your body relax.

When should I call my doctor or midwife?


  • Any vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • More pressure in the pelvic area (a feeling that your baby's pushing down)

If you're past 37 weeks, there's no need to call your doctor or midwife just for contractions until they last about 60 seconds each and are five minutes apart and continue like this for an hour — unless your caregiver has advised you otherwise. Also call if you're bleeding or leaking amniotic fluid.