Braxton Hicks or real contractions: how can you tell?
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Practice contractions, also called Braxton Hicks, usually come and go without a regular pattern and ease off when you rest, change position, have a drink or take a warm shower. Labor contractions settle into a pattern and grow longer, stronger and closer together whatever you do. It is not always easy to tell, so if you are not sure, call your provider.
Practice contractions often
- Come and go without a regular pattern.
- Don't get longer, stronger or closer together.
- Ease off when you rest, change position, have a drink or take a warm shower.
- Feel like a tightening across your belly rather than strong pain.
Labor contractions often
- Settle into a pattern that becomes more regular over time.
- Grow longer, stronger and closer together.
- Keep coming whether you rest, walk or change position.
- Start in your lower back and wrap around to the front, or feel like strong period cramps.
Other signs labor may be starting
- A show: sticky, jelly-like mucus, sometimes pink or streaked with a little blood.
- Your waters breaking, as a gush or a slow trickle.
- A dull backache, or heaviness low in your belly.
- Loose stools or an upset stomach.
Some people notice these signs days before labor, and some not at all. Labor can still be days away after a show.
Your baby should keep moving
You may have heard that babies move less before labor. This is a myth. Your baby should keep moving right up to and during labor. If movements slow down, feel weaker or change, call your provider or maternity unit right away.
When you are not sure
Time a few contractions in Popzy. Then rest, have a drink and change position. If they fade away, they may have been practice contractions. If they keep coming, or you simply are not sure, call your provider or maternity unit. Asking is always okay.
Related questions
Can a contraction timer tell Braxton Hicks from labor?
No app can tell for certain. A timer shows whether your contractions are getting longer, stronger and closer together, which helps you and your provider decide. If you are unsure, call.
Are contractions before 37 weeks Braxton Hicks?
Not always. Regular contractions, waters breaking or pressure low in your pelvis before 37 weeks mean call your provider or maternity unit now.
Get Popzy on iPhone and Android
Popzy is not a medical device. It times contractions and does not replace advice from your midwife, doctor or maternity unit. If you are unsure, or if your waters break, you notice bleeding, your baby moves less or anything feels wrong, call them.