Braxton Hicks vs. Contractions: What's the Difference?

Bella Women's Care Blog Braxton Hicks vs. Contractions: What's the Difference?
Braxton Hicks vs. Contractions: What's the difference?
When you're nearing the end of your pregnancy, it can be difficult to tell if you are having real contractions, or 'fake' contractions, otherwise known as Braxton Hicks. Braxton Hicks can be uncomfortable just like real contractions, so it's always best to call your provider and ask for clarification, but why not arm yourself with knowledge on what they are and why we experience them! (So cool...)
Braxton Hicks are practice contractions that allow your body to naturally prepare for labor. Consider it a warm-up exercise for the big day. Their job is to get your uterine muscle ready and prepare the cervix to deliver your baby as easily as possible.
Braxton Hick's contractions are wildly irregular and not all women experience them. Real contractions are experienced consistently with increasing intensity. This is not only the biggest difference between the two, but the biggest giveaway in determining if it's the start of real labor or just BH. Some women have reported them as early as their second trimester, but most experience them in their third. Every pregnancy is unique and requires unique care. Call Bella Women's Care or your Obstetrics Provider for guidance if you believe you're experiencing contractions - Real or Braxton Hicks!
 
Author
Bella Women's Care Blogger

You Might Also Enjoy...

Questions You Should Be Asking Your Sexual Partners

Being honest with your sexual partner(s) is key, and vice versa. You should feel 100% safe, comfortable and confident before an experience with someone new. Here are some of the questions you should always be asking. Don't feel awkward, feel empowered!

COVID-19 Vaccine During Pregnancy?

The society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine and other pregnancy experts recommend a COVID-19 vaccination for pregnant and lactating mothers. Here are some of your biggest questions, answered!

Self Care for the Breast Feeding Mom

In Honor of World Breast Feeding Week, an annual campaign to raise awareness for breastfeeding around the world, let’s open up a conversation on breast feeding and how moms can take care of themselves while nursing.

I'm Pregnant and Don't Have Insurance - Now What?

Money should be your last worry when navigating a new pregnancy. Not only do we have some of the most reasonable prenatal packages in the valley, but we also offer assistance to help you apply for AHCCCS coverage, set up sensible payment plans, and more!

Pregnancy Glow Explained!

You may have heard that you’re “glowing.” With a different balance of hormones and other physical changes to your skin and hair happening, there’s actually a scientific basis to pregnancy glow.