They say practice makes perfect—and even your body takes that to heart when preparing for childbirth. Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “practice contractions,” can show up halfway through pregnancy and continue until delivery. But how can you tell the difference between these trial runs and the real deal? Let’s unpack it.
What Exactly Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Think of Braxton Hicks as your uterus doing warm-up stretches. They help tone the muscles needed for labour but don’t actually trigger birth. Unlike true labour contractions, they won’t open the cervix or move the baby down.
What Do They Feel Like?
Many describe them as a tightening across the bump that begins at the top of the uterus and moves downward. Your tummy may feel firm or oddly shaped. While they can feel uncomfortable, they’re generally not painful.
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First-time moms: You may not notice them at all.
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Experienced moms: They’re often more noticeable the second time around (and beyond).
When Do They Start?
Braxton Hicks can appear as early as 20 weeks into pregnancy. They’re usually more obvious in the third trimester. From around week 32, you may feel them more frequently as your body gears up for labour.
Why Do They Happen?
Pregnancy hormones are busy preparing your uterus for birth. Braxton Hicks contractions help strengthen those muscles and gently ready your cervix for the big day.
How Long Do They Last?
Typically, they last anywhere between 15 to 30 seconds, sometimes stretching up to two minutes before easing off.
False Labour Explained
False labour can be tricky—it often feels like the start of something major, but it doesn’t progress into active labour. Braxton Hicks are the usual culprit behind these “false alarms.”
How to spot false labour:
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Contractions feel like mild period cramps.
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They don’t follow a regular pattern.
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A change in activity, position, or a glass of water can make them fade.
True Labour vs. False Labour: Spot the Difference
True Labour
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Contractions become regular and steadily stronger.
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They don’t go away with rest, movement, or fluids.
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Each one lasts 30–70 seconds.
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Other signs may appear, like a bloody show, nausea, diarrhoea, or your waters breaking.
False Labour
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Contractions are irregular and unpredictable.
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Relief often comes with rest, hydration, or changing positions.
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They’re shorter—usually 15–30 seconds, maxing out around 2 minutes.
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The tightening is felt mostly in the front of the belly (true labour often starts in the lower back and moves forward).
Is It Normal Not to Feel Them?
Absolutely! Some women, especially first-time moms, don’t notice Braxton Hicks at all. Others only feel them later in pregnancy or as mild tightening. Whether you experience them or not has no impact on your ability to give birth.
Easing the Discomfort
If Braxton Hicks leave you feeling unsettled, try:
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Hydrating: Even mild dehydration can trigger contractions.
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Changing positions: Move around, lie down, or switch from sitting to standing.
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Relaxation techniques: Use this as a chance to practice your breathing or visualisation exercises.
When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
Always reach out if you’re uncertain. Call your doctor or midwife if:
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Contractions are painful and regular.
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You notice bright red bleeding or your water breaks.
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You experience severe discomfort, fever, or chills.
Final Thoughts
Pre-labour can last anywhere from hours to weeks, and telling the difference between false and true labour isn’t always easy. When in doubt, check in with your healthcare provider—it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
With patience and a bit of practice, you’ll soon hear the most exciting words: “Your baby is on the way!”