As you get closer to your due date, you’re probably starting to experience contractions. But are these true contractions or are they Braxton-hicks? And what do true contractions feel like? You’re probably starting to wonder if there are any clear signs of real contractions vs. Braxton-hicks. The good news is there are.
Braxton-hicks are painless tightenings of your uterus. Basically, your uterus is exercising so it’s strong enough to push the baby into the birth canal. Some people notice these contractions very early in their pregnancy whereas others will go through their entire pregnancy without noticing any. Either way is normal. For more information about Braxton-hicks click here.
Just to make it confusing, as you ease your way into labor you’ll start having many Braxton hicks with some real contractions thrown into the mix. Over time, you’ll have less Braxton-hicks and more real contractions. So how do you tell the difference?
Firmness of the belly. With Braxton-hicks contractions, only a portion of your belly gets hard. With real contractions, your entire belly gets as hard as your forehead.
Timing. While Braxton-hicks do get rhythmic sometimes, (they’re every 7 minutes for an hour or two, for example) they don’t get closer together over time like true labor contractions do.
How they feel. Braxton-hicks contractions are often painless, though some people says they feel like light menstrual cramps. You may also notice portion of your belly getting hard which can be an uncomfortable feeling. Some people say Braxton-hicks feel like the baby curling up into a ball and then releasing. Real contractions feel like very strong menstrual cramps. You may also notice radiating pain in the back and/or pressure in the pelvis like the baby is pressing down. In addition, real contractions get longer, stronger and closer together over time.
With true labor contractions your entire belly will get as hard as your forehead. True labor contractions will also be uncomfortable if not painful. You should notice pressure in your pelvis and/or your back with true labor contractions. With true labor contractions you won’t be able to walk or talk during them and will probably have to focus and breathe to get through them.
The information in this article is not medical advice. This information is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe or cure anything during your pregnancy, birth, or postpartum time. Always check with your care provider before following any advice from TheOnlyBabyStop.com.