What are “Braxton-Hicks” contractions?
Braxton-Hicks contractions are very mild, irregular contractions that may feel like menstrual cramps. They can occur at any time in the late 2nd trimester and 3rd trimester(26 – 40 weeks). If you are less than 36 weeks and these mild cramps become uncomfortable or are accompanied by a mucous or bloody discharge, you should proceed to the Hospital. Otherwise, they are common and normal.
Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic uterine contractions that start about 6 weeks into your pregnancy, although you won’t be able to feel them that early. You probably won’t start to notice them until sometime after mid-pregnancy, if you notice them at all. (Some women don’t.) They get their name from John Braxton Hicks, an English doctor who first described them in 1872. As your pregnancy progresses, Braxton Hicks contractions tend to come somewhat more often, but until you get to your last few weeks, they’ll probably remain infrequent, irregular, and essentially painless. Sometimes, though, Braxton Hicks contractions are hard to distinguish from early signs of preterm labor. Play it safe and don’t try to make the diagnosis yourself. If you haven’t hit 37 weeks yet and you’re having more than four contractions in an hour — or you have any other signs of preterm labor (see below) — call your caregiver immediately. By the time you’re within a couple of weeks of your due date, your c
