The Difference between Braxton Hicks Contractions and Labour Pains

## Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks, also known as false labour, happen when your uterus contracts and relaxes, and you may feel your bump becoming tighter [1]. Many women have these types of contractions, usually from week 24 onwards. The hormonal culprit here is oxytocin, which is rising in anticipation for birth [2].

Discomfort and pain during pregnancy, such as the results of a Braxton Hicks contractions, can often lead to many women feeling anxious about potential negative implications, such as the impacts on baby’s health [3]. Understanding the differences between Braxton Hicks and real labour pains can help reduce this worry and develop a greater understanding of your body.

## Labour Pains vs Braxton Hicks

Braxton Hicks are often short-lived and milder than true labour [4]. Most women describe them as alike to mild menstrual cramps and tightening in specific areas of the abdomen that come and go.

Braxton Hicks contractions may, however, increase in intensity and duration nearing the end of the pregnancy, which is normal as our oxytocin levels rise in anticipation for birth. The main ways to differentiate Braxton Hicks from true labour are:

| Braxton Hicks | True Labour |

| ------ | ------ |

| Contractions are irregular in duration and intensity and will randomly stop | Contractions are usually in regular intervals that become shorter between each contraction as intensity grows |

| Contractions are often more uncomfortable than they are painful | Labour pains may initial start as strong menstrual pain and may be accompanied with pain in the lower back |

| No dilation of the cervix | Dilation of the cervix which gets wider with each subsequent contraction |

However, you know your body and baby best, and if you are concerned you should always seek medical assistance. If your contractions are combined with the following, you should seek medical attention:

- Prolonged labour feeling

- Lack of baby movement or baby’s movement has stopped

- Persistent pain in the back and stomach

- Vaginal bleeding