If practice makes perfect, then Braxton Hicks really do mean well. Braxton Hicks are a type of contraction that helps prepare your body for labor by exercising your uterine muscles. Think of them as a dress rehearsal for the main event of childbirth.

Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy and happen to most pregnant women. If you’re not familiar with Braxton Hicks, it’s easy to think you might actually be going into labor. But there are distinct differences from true labor contractions. Let’s get into it.

What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Braxton Hicks are named after Dr. John Braxton Hicks, an English physician who was the first to describe these contractions back in 1872. Also known as prodromal or false labor pains, these contractions are believed to start around six weeks of gestation, but usually aren’t felt until the second or third trimesters. 

In fact, women most commonly experience Braxton Hicks in the final weeks of the third trimester. And they typically get more frequent the closer you approach your due date. (Hence, why the confusion about whether they’re real or not.)

What is a contraction, in the first place? A contraction is when the uterine muscles tighten and relax, which is what happens with Braxton Hicks. This type of contraction is believed to play a role in toning the muscles in the uterus and softening (but not dilating) the cervix to ready it for childbirth. The intermittent contractions of the uterine muscles may also play a part in promoting the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the placenta. 

Braxton Hicks contractions can vary in intensity, frequency, and duration among pregnant women. Some women can feel as if they’re having mild menstrual cramps. Others might experience a more intense tightness of the abdomen. The important thing to know is Braxton Hicks are a natural part of pregnancy.

Beyond prepping your body for the big day, there are other circumstances that make Braxton Hicks more likely:

• Having a full bladder or emptying your bladder
• Lifting heavy things
• Being physically active
• Fetal movement
• Having sex

4 Ways You Can Tell Your Contractions Are Braxton Hicks

1. The contractions don’t come at regular intervals

There’s a big difference between the timing and frequency of Braxton Hicks and true contractions. When you’re in real labor, contractions follow a specific pattern. Contractions will come regularly and get closer together, about five to 10 minutes apart. Each contraction lasts anywhere from 30 to 70 seconds and will get longer the closer you are to giving birth. 

Braxton Hicks contractions, on the other hand, are irregular and unpredictable. They do not get closer together. They may last less than 30 seconds or up to two minutes, but then they subside.

2. They’re not as strong 

You know those emoji-like face scales doctors show you to rate your pain? Real contractions move up that scale. They progressively become more painful and intense. True labor contractions require all of your attention—they can become so powerful, you can’t walk or talk during them.

Braxton Hicks contractions are more mild. They can be weak or strong, but eventually they’ll taper out. And, while you're having them, they won't be as severe as a true contraction (which, of course, you would only be able to compare if you’ve already had a baby). 

3. They may subside when you move around

Braxton Hicks contractions may stop when you change your position or activity level, such as walking or resting. With true labor, contractions continue no matter what. They may even become stronger with movement or position change.

4. They could go away if you drink water
Dehydration can cause Braxton Hicks contractions. If you drink some water while you’re experiencing these spasms and they disappear, you know they’re Braxton Hicks.  

When you’re really in labor, sipping water or having ice chips is helpful to keep you hydrated and prevent your mouth from getting dry. But it won't make the contractions go away.

When to Call the Doctor

Having contractions doesn't mean you should grab your bag and immediately head to the hospital. Most people should call their clinician when contractions last at least a minute and are coming every five minutes consistently, over the course of an hour. If you have had pregnancy complications, your doctor may suggest you call sooner—be sure to ask them when you should reach out. If any contractions are accompanied by leaking fluid or vaginal bleeding, always call your doctor.

If the contractions are shorter or less frequent, take a breath and see if they subside. It may be a false alarm. As always, when in doubt, always call your doctor.