Quick read
Key points
- 1
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular tightenings of the uterus that can start from around the second trimester, though they're most noticeable in the third. Often described as a "practice" for labour, they help the uterus prepare without actually opening the cervix.
- 2
Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
- 3
Contractions become regular, increasingly painful, or closer together
01 · Know
What is Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular tightenings of the uterus that can start from around the second trimester, though they're most noticeable in the third. Often described as a "practice" for labour, they help the uterus prepare without actually opening the cervix.
They typically feel like a tightening or hardening of the belly that comes and goes, usually without pain, and settle down with rest, movement, or hydration — unlike true labour contractions, which become more frequent, regular, and intense over time.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
Timing tells the difference
True labour contractions get closer together, last longer, and become more intense over time, and don't ease off with rest or a change of position. Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular and usually settle with rest.
03 · Act
When to Contact Your Maternity Team
- 1Contractions become regular, increasingly painful, or closer together
- 2You experience contractions before 37 weeks along with lower back pain, pelvic pressure, or vaginal discharge
- 3Your waters break, or you notice any vaginal bleeding
- 4You're unsure whether what you're feeling is Braxton Hicks or true labour
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Rest and Hydration Usually Help
Braxton Hicks contractions often ease with simple changes — if they don't, or if anything feels different, contact your maternity team.
- 1Change position.Sitting, standing, or lying down — whichever you weren't doing when they started — can often ease them.
- 2Stay hydrated.Dehydration can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, so drink a glass of water when they start.
- 3Try a warm bath.Warm (not hot) water can help relax the muscles of the uterus.
- 4Practice relaxed breathing.Slow, steady breathing can ease the sensation and help you stay calm.
- 5Rest if you've been active.Overactivity can bring these contractions on, so a period of rest may settle them.
Evidence
References
BarnMD Health Intelligence uses authoritative and clinically relevant sources appropriate to the topic. References are shown so readers can inspect the evidence directly.
- NHS: Signs that labour has begun ↗
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy and not a sign that labour has started.
If you're ever unsure whether it's Braxton Hicks or true labour, it's always fine to call your maternity team and ask.