As an expecting mother, it`s common to experience contractions throughout pregnancy. While some of these contractions may be false alarms, others may indicate that it`s time to head to the hospital. But how can you distinguish between real contractions and Braxton Hicks? In this article, we`ll explore the differences between the two and help you identify what to expect as your delivery day approaches.
What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as practice contractions, are a normal part of pregnancy. Typically, they start around the second trimester and continue throughout the third trimester. These contractions are irregular and sporadic and can be felt as tightening and releasing sensations in the abdomen. They are usually painless and don`t last very long, usually no more than 30 seconds to a minute.
What Do Real Contractions Feel Like?
Real contractions are the ones that indicate that you`re in labor and should head to the hospital. They differ from Braxton Hicks contractions in several ways. Real contractions are typically more regular and closer together and can be felt in the lower back as well as the abdomen. They typically start out feeling like strong menstrual cramps or a tightness that gradually intensifies over time.
As labor progresses, the contractions become more frequent and more intense. You may feel like you need to breathe through the contractions or use breathing techniques you`ve learned in childbirth classes. They can last anywhere from 30 seconds to a minute or longer and are usually accompanied by other signs of labor, such as the water breaking.
How Can You Tell the Difference?
The key to telling the difference between Braxton Hicks and real contractions is paying attention to their regularity and intensity. Braxton Hicks are usually sporadic and don`t follow a pattern, whereas real contractions are usually more frequent and follow a regular pattern.
Another way to tell the difference is to change positions. Braxton Hicks contractions usually go away or lessen when you change positions, whereas real contractions continue regardless of what position you`re in.
As labor progresses, you may experience other signs that indicate that you`re in active labor, such as the water breaking, bloody discharge, or the need to push. If you`re experiencing any of these signs along with what you believe to be real contractions, it`s time to head to the hospital.
In Conclusion
Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, and most women experience them throughout their third trimester. They are irregular, painless, and don`t follow a pattern. Real contractions, on the other hand, indicate that you`re in labor and should head to the hospital. They are more frequent, intense, and follow a regular pattern. By paying attention to the regularity and intensity of your contractions, you can determine whether you`re experiencing Braxton Hicks or real contractions and whether it`s time to head to the hospital.