Braxton-Hicks or The Real Thing?!?

  Time to Wait or Time to Go?

  For several weeks now I have been feeling the super-fun effects of Braxton-Hicks contractions. Braxton-Hicks are those practice contractions in the weeks or months leading up to labor/delivery. As I write this they are coming every 3-5 minutes. My first baby was a preemie. She came about 6 weeks early. Since she was my first I called several times in the several weeks before wondering if she could come early. I had read about Braxton-Hicks, but having never experienced them [or labor for that matter] I was never sure if I should call or wait it out. When I did go, I was sent home and was told it was just my body practicing for labor. With my second, I just assumed they would send me home and didn't call. Until one night a month before my due date, I had been having contractions all day and they were closer together and stronger. I called. I was sent to the hospital and to my shock [and horror] they admitted me to the hospital and called all of the surgical team [since I was supposed to have a repeat c-section. I didn't even have a car seat yet. They did get the contractions to stop and I was sent home a day and a half later. But it's good to know if you should call, go in, or sit with your feet up drinking some water.

  So for those of you having your first or second or are just unsure, here are some general guidelines. **ALWAYS refer to your Physician and follow their advice for your personal situation, and always if you feel there is something wrong, call the doctor or go to the hospital.

Contraction Characteristics

False Labor

True Labor

How often do the contractions occur?

Contractions are often irregular and do not get closer together

Contractions come at regular intervals and last about 30-70 seconds. As time goes on, they get closer together.

Do they change with movement?

Contractions may stop when you walk or rest, or may even stop if you change positions

Contractions continue despite movement or changing positions

How strong are they?

Contractions are usually weak and do not get much stronger. Or they may be strong at first and then get weaker.

Contractions steadily increase in strength

Where do you feel the pain?

Contractions are usually only felt in the front of the abdomen or pelvic region

Contractions usually start in the lower back and move to the front of the abdomen

Some Items You May Need:

* A watch, clock, timer or app for your phone. I am using an app from iTunes called "Contraction" There are several apps for different phone platforms. Lots are free some are in the 99 cent range. Works great when you're alone and don't have a timing buddy. 

*Comfy place to relax and put your feet up. If it's braxton-hicks contractions, this will make a difference. 

*Water bottle. Drinking water can help ease braxton-hicks, and if you're in labor and you're walking around, it's a good thing to have with you!

You Might Experience These if You are in Labor:

*Pressure in pelvis or vagina

*Menstrual-like cramps

*Bleeding 

*Fluid Leak

*Nausea, Vomiting or Diarrhea 

CALL THE DOCTOR