Braxton Hicks vs real contractions: how to tell the difference
What Braxton Hicks contractions feel like, how they differ from true labor contractions, what eases them, and when contractions mean it's time to call.
Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes called "practice contractions". They are your uterus tightening and relaxing, a normal part of pregnancy that helps tone the muscle. They can start as early as the second trimester, often from around week 22, and usually become more noticeable in the third trimester.
What do Braxton Hicks feel like?
Most people feel a tightening or hardening across the belly that lasts from 30 seconds to two minutes, then relaxes. They are usually uncomfortable rather than painful, and they come and go without a pattern.
Braxton Hicks vs real contractions
| Braxton Hicks | True labor contractions | |
|---|---|---|
| Pattern | Irregular, no pattern | Regular, getting closer together |
| Strength | Stay the same or get weaker | Get steadily stronger |
| Length | 30 seconds to 2 minutes, varying | Get longer, around 60 to 90 seconds in active labor |
| Where you feel them | Usually the front of the belly | Often start in the lower back and wrap around to the front |
| With rest or movement | Often ease or stop | Keep going whatever you do |
| Other signs | None | Bloody show, waters breaking, back pain |
The clearest test is time. Time your contractions for an hour with our free contraction timer. True labor contractions form a regular pattern that gets closer together. Braxton Hicks don't.
What triggers Braxton Hicks?
- Being dehydrated
- A full bladder
- Being very active, or after sex
- Your baby moving a lot
- Being on your feet all day
How to ease Braxton Hicks
- Drink a big glass of water. Dehydration is a common trigger.
- Change what you are doing. If you were active, lie down on your left side; if you were resting, go for a gentle walk.
- Empty your bladder.
- Take a warm (not hot) bath or shower.
- Breathe slowly, in for four and out for six. This is good practice for labor too.
If the contractions ease after you try these, they were most likely Braxton Hicks.
When to call your provider
Call your doctor or midwife if you have:
- four or more contractions in an hour before 37 weeks, even if they don't hurt, as this can be a sign of preterm labor
- contractions that become regular and stronger, especially at 5 minutes apart lasting a minute (see signs of labor)
- fluid leaking or bleeding
- your baby moving less than usual
- pain that is constant rather than coming and going
Frequently asked questions
Can Braxton Hicks hurt?
They are usually more uncomfortable than painful, but they can be strong in late pregnancy. If they become painful and regular, call your provider.
Do Braxton Hicks mean labor is close?
Not necessarily. Many people have them for weeks. In the last weeks they may become more frequent as your cervix gets ready, which is sometimes called prodromal labor.
Is it normal to have no Braxton Hicks?
Yes. Some people never notice them, and that is completely fine.
Sources
- ACOG: How to tell when labor begins
- NHS: Braxton Hicks contractions
- Cleveland Clinic: Braxton Hicks contractions
General information only, not medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your doctor or midwife.
History of updates
- : Published.
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