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Braxton-Hicks Contractions
Episodes of tightening (contraction)
of the uterine muscles are called Braxton-Hicks contractions. Although
Braxton-Hicks contractions happen from very early in pregnancy, most women do
not really notice them until the second half of pregnancy. Braxton-Hicks
contractions are thought to play a part in toning the uterine muscle and
promoting the flow of blood to the placenta. Some people call them practice
contractions.
Braxton-Hicks contractions tend
to be started off by either you or the baby moving, or by somebody touching your
abdomen. Each Braxton-Hicks contraction may last 1-2 minutes. During this time,
the whole uterus becomes hard. This may feel strange and rather uncomfortable.
Braxton-Hicks contractions will not do three things and that is get longer in
duration, closer together and last for a longer time period. Real labor will
have contractions that are progressive and unable to be halted. Braxton-Hicks
contractions may come and go. They may persist for hours on end and then cease
to exist at all. Braxton Hicks contractions are not productive enough to promote
the birth of the your baby. Braxton Hicks contractions usually are irregular in
pattern and go away if you change your activity or drink water.
Braxton Hicks contractions can
truly be as painful as real labor and make it even harder to distinguish the
difference between the two. Again, the approach of determining if they are
getting longer, stronger or closer together is the key. Real labor will persist
and will not be persuaded to go away. However, if you are in doubt, contact your
health care provider.
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