Pregnancy is an amazing state of women, life is created. During pregnancy, Braxton Hicks contractions are experienced. They are like signals from the body to warn you that it is preparing for the big day. But what happens when these contractions seem to come more frequently than you expected?
So that you can understand everything about Braxton Hicks contractions, we are going to explain them in detail. why they occur and above all, how to differentiate them of actual labor contractions and how to manage them for a healthy pregnancy.
Braxton Hicks contractions
Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as false contractions, occur during pregnancy, especially at the end of it. They are named after the British doctor John Braxton Hicks, who described them in the XNUMXth century. These contractions are essentially a simulation that your uterus performs to prepare for the actual birth.
Although they may begin to appear as early as the second trimester, you are more likely to feel them in the third trimester. These contractions are generally painless or cause slight discomfort, although their intensity may vary. They are a normal and necessary part of the process of preparing for childbirth.
The frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions
Sometimes, during pregnancy, contractions can appear very frequently, something that can confuse the pregnant woman, believing that labor may come early. Next we are going to explain to you what it means that Braxton Hicks contractions occur frequently:
- Practices on the uterine muscle: Braxton Hicks contractions are like the gym for your uterus. They help strengthen and prepare the uterine muscle for the contractions of actual childbirth.
- Physical activity: When walking or doing physical activities this stimulates contractions. Your body reacts to movement and physical exertion by increasing uterine activity.
- Adequate hydration: Dehydration can increase the frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions. Drinking enough water is essential to keep your body functioning optimally.
- Stress and anxiety: tYour emotional state can also influence the frequency of these contractions. Stress and anxiety can trigger the release of hormones that affect the uterus.
- Sexual activity: Orgasm can trigger uterine contractions, and during pregnancy, these contractions may be more pronounced and frequent.
- Multiple pregnancy: If you are expecting twins or multiples, you may feel Braxton Hicks contractions more frequently due to increased uterine distension.
Distinguish Braxton Hicks contractions from actual labor
One of the main concerns when you experience Braxton Hicks contractions very close together is to make sure it is not premature labor. Here are some tips to differentiate them:
- Regularity: Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular in terms of timing and do not follow a consistent pattern. Actual labor contractions become more regular over time.
- Intensity: Braxton Hicks contractions cause only mild discomfort. During actual labor the contractions are more intense and painful, and their intensity increases over time.
- Location: Braxton Hicks contractions are localized in the abdomen and actual labor contractions are felt throughout the uterus and can radiate to the back.
- Duration: Braxton Hicks contractions are short, they usually do not last one minute and those of real labor are longer and can exceed a minute or more.
- Change with movement: When you have Braxton Hicks contractions, they are relieved by changing positions and when you have actual labor, they are intense in any position.
How to Cope with Frequent Braxton Hicks Contractions
If you have noticed that you have Braxton Hicks contractions frequently, then you will be interested in knowing some strategies to cope with them correctly and so that they do not cause you too much continuous discomfort. Take note:
- Rest: Resting is the key... if they are frequent, sit or lie on your left side to relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava and improve blood flow to the uterus and your baby.
- Drink water: Hydration is important so that contractions do not trigger due to dehydration.
- Just relax: relax with techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
- Don't hold your urine: If you have to pee, don't hold it in because if your bladder fills up, it could put pressure on your uterus.
- Change the posture: From time to time, change your position from sitting to lying down or standing to relieve contractions.
- Talk to your doctor: Talking to your doctor if the contractions are frequent or painful is important to rule out premature birth.
When should you seek medical help?
During pregnancy, if there is any concern, you should always talk to a medical professional to check that everything is going well. But if Braxton Hicks contractions persist or worry you, it's vital to contact your doctor.
Although they are mostly harmless, a sudden increase in its frequency could be related with underlying problems that require medical attention. Some warning signs are:
- Regular and increasingly intense contractions.
- Contractions accompanied by vaginal bleeding or the release of amniotic fluid.
- Contractions that persist despite rest, hydration, and change of mood
- position.
Contractions before the 37th week of pregnancy.
If you see any of these signs, do not hesitate to go to your doctor to check your health and that of your baby.
Frequent Braxton Hicks contractions in multiple pregnancy
If you're expecting twins, triplets, or other multiples, it's important to understand how Braxton Hicks contractions can vary compared to a single-baby pregnancy.
In these cases, you may feel these contractions more frequently and greater intensity due to greater uterine distension. The multiplicity of pregnancy puts extra pressure on the uterus, which can make contractions more noticeable.
If you experience a multiple pregnancy, be sure to closely follow your doctor's recommendations and report any changes in contractions to ensure proper follow-up.
The importance of emotional support
Throughout pregnancy, Braxton Hicks contractions can trigger a variety of emotions, from anticipation to anxiety. Sharing your worries and emotions with your partner, family, or close friends can relieve stress and anxiety related to contractions.
You can also think about joining pregnancy support groups, where you can connect with other women who are going through similar experiences. Prenatal care that includes emotional support can significantly contribute to your overall well-being and your ability to manage Braxton Hicks contractions effectively.
Remember that your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical well-being during pregnancy, and count with a solid support system can make a big difference in your experience.
Braxton Hicks contractions and preparing for childbirth
Braxton Hicks contractions are not only your body's natural response to pregnancy, but they can also serve as an opportunity to prepare for childbirth. As you feel them more frequently, you can use them as an opportunity to Practice breathing and relaxation techniques that will be helpful during actual labor.
One option is to attend childbirth preparation classes, because there they can teach you how to prepare for the moment of birth with different specific strategies that adapt to you.
Take advantage of this preparation phase to increase your confidence and reduce any anxiety you may have about the moment you are looking forward to. Remember that you are developing skills that will be of great help to you when the time comes to give birth.
After childbirth, do contractions also occur?
Braxton Hicks contractions do not necessarily end after delivery. After giving birth, you may experience postpartum contractions known as "uterine contractions" or "posterior uterine contractions." These contractions are a result of the uterus contracting and shrinks to its normal size after childbirth.
Although they can be uncomfortable, especially in the immediate postpartum period, they are a natural part of the recovery process. These contractions tend to be more frequent in mothers who have had multiple births and tend to decrease in intensity and frequency over time.
If you have concerns about postpartum contractions, don't hesitate to discuss them with your health care professional, who can provide you with guidance and relief if necessary.
Braxton Hicks contractions are a necessary and often challenging part of the pregnancy journey. By understanding why they occur, how to differentiate them from real labor contractions, and how to handle them better, you can enjoy this period with confidence and tranquility.
Also, take advantage of this stage to prepare yourself emotionally and physically for the exciting day when you will meet your baby. Don't forget that your journey is wonderful, and each contraction is a reminder of the incredible transformation that Your body is experimenting as it prepares to welcome new life.
Your journey to motherhood is a special one, and Braxton Hicks contractions, although sometimes persistent, are just a small part of the incredible adventure you are experiencing. Enjoy every moment and get ready to welcome your baby with love and joy.