What are Braxton Hicks Contractions (AKA False Labor)?

Introduction

Braxton Hicks contractions, also called “false labor pains” or “practice contractions”, are uterine contractions usually experienced during the third trimester of pregnancy.

While these contractions often cause some worry for the expectant mother, they are innocuous, pose no harm to the baby, and are not associated with the onset of labor.

In this article, we will discuss what Braxton Hicks contractions are, their symptoms, and how they differ from actual labor contractions.

What are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

First described in 1872 by physician John Braxton Hicks, Braxton Hicks contractions serve as a way for the uterus to “practice” for the moment of birth. These contractions are not expulsive and do not pose a risk of preterm labor. No pregnant woman goes into labor due to Braxton Hicks contractions.

Though practice contractions may be present from the first trimester of pregnancy, they are typically subtle and often go unnoticed until the end of the second trimester. As the pregnancy progresses, Braxton Hicks contractions tend to become more frequent, occurring up until the final weeks of gestation.

Braxton Hicks contractions are brief and occur at irregular and unpredictable intervals. They can be triggered by various factors, such as increased activity by the mother or baby, abdominal palpation, sexual intercourse, dehydration, or having a full bladder.

Differences Between Braxton Hicks Contractions and True Labor Contractions

One of the most notable differences between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions is that the former are generally painless and irregular in frequency. While false labor contractions can be uncomfortable at times, they are quite distinct from the intense and painful contractions experienced during labor.

The way women describe practice contractions can vary. Some describe them as similar to mild menstrual or intestinal cramps, although this is not the most common description. Typically, women report them as painless uterine contractions or as if the muscles across the belly are tightening.

As previously mentioned, Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular with unpredictable intervals and do not become progressively intenser and more frequent over time, in contrast to true labor contractions.

Another characteristic of false labor is the alleviation of contractions after a simple change in position. If a woman is standing, often sitting or lying down can make the contractions disappear. Lying on one’s side also tends to help.

Conversely, during labor, changing positions does not affect contractions. Once expulsive contractions begin, nothing can alleviate them.

Below, we summarize the main characteristics of Braxton Hicks and labor contractions.

Characteristics of Braxton Hicks contractions:

• Typically painless.
• Occur infrequently throughout the day.
• Usually, do not occur more than twice per hour.
• Irregular and unpredictable.
• Short, generally lasting less than 30 seconds.
• Do not become more intense over time.
• If one contraction is severe, the next is often weaker.
• Usually localized to one part of the abdomen, typically the front.
• Improve with changes in position.
• Improve with hydration or urination.

Characteristics of true labor contractions:

• Painful.
• Once they start, they do not stop.
• Become progressively stronger.
• Become gradually more frequent and predictable.
• Intervals between contractions shorten over time.
• Last from 30 to 70 seconds.
• Do not improve with position changes or hydration.
• Often located in the back and front of the abdomen (can start in the back and move to the front or vice versa).

When Should I Worry About Braxton Hicks Contractions?

You need not be concerned about Braxton Hicks contractions, as they are a normal and frequent occurrence during pregnancy.

Most women can easily distinguish between Braxton Hicks contractions and labor contractions. However, if you are uncertain or the pattern of contractions has recently changed, contact your obstetrician.

Some warning signs should not be ignored, even if the contractions do not exhibit the characteristics of labor mentioned above. These include:

• Vaginal bleeding.
• Fluid leakage from the vagina.
• Sudden, intensely painful contractions.
• A noticeable reduction in the baby’s movements.

What Can I Do to Alleviate Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Although Braxton Hicks contractions are typically painless, they can cause discomfort. To alleviate this discomfort, try the following:

1. Change your position. If you are standing, sit down; if you are sitting, stand up.
2. Drink plenty of water.
3. Urinate if you feel the urge.
4. Avoid exertion.
5. Take a warm bath.
6. Try eating.
7. Use relaxation techniques (if familiar with any).
8. Don’t worry about practice contractions; they are benign and part of a healthy pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

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References

• Braxton Hicks Contractions – NBCI StatPearls.
• Braxton Hicks Contractions – American Pregnancy Association.
• Latent phase of labor – UpToDate.
• Williams Obstetrics, 25e F. Gary Cunningham, Kenneth J. Leveno, Steven L. Bloom, Jodi S. Dashe, Barbara L. Hoffman, Brian M. Casey, Catherine Y. Spong.

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