Braxton Hick contractions and dehydration

When I was pregnant for the first time and started having Braxton Hicks contractions, I didn't know what in the world was happening. But thanks to the power of the internet, I was able to do a little research and find out that I was experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions. Braxton Hicks are sporatic uterine contractions that start at about 6 weeks, although you probably won't notice them until about halfway into your pregnancy. Basically it feels like your stomach is as hard as a rock, they aren't really painful but can be uncomfortable, and they come and go at random intervals.

My experience with Braxton Hicks contractions was a little different though. They would come at regular intervals, usually 5 or 7 minutes apart. I remember clearly calling the midwife on call thinking that I was going into labor at 15-20 weeks. Turns out my problem was dehydration.

We all know that drinking lots of water is important in every day life, but it's even more important in pregnancy. I was having Braxton Hicks contractions a lot, but after finding out that I wasn't drinking enough water, I made sure to drink plenty every day and the contractions decreased significantly. And when I would have contractions, I'd down a couple of glasses, and they would go away. So with my second pregnancy I knew better. I started off my day with a glass of water, and made sure I drank water regularly throughout the day. I didn't have nearly as many Braxton Hicks contractions the second time around. And once again, when I did have them, almost always drinking a couple glasses of water would make them go away.

Of course talk to you doctor about any concerns you have with contractions, but if you are experiencing a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions yourself, perhaps dehydration could be the culprit and the fix is as easy as making sure you drink more water throughout the day.