Life
Here’s an embarrassing story for you. The first time one of my friends posted about Braxton Hicks on her Facebook wall, I thought she was talking about an American Idol contestant. I have since learned a bit more about Braxton Hicks, the typically painless uterine contractions that many women start experiencing around the middle of their pregnancy. These contractions are just the uterine muscles flexing in preparation for the real labor to come.But as the due date draws near, women often has difficulties telling the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and the real deal.
And it makes sense. You’re likely primed and ready to head to the hospital at the first sign of actual labor (not to mention, you’re desperate to have the baby out of you), and Braxton Hicks can sometimes mimic that feeling. I mean, they’re all called contractions, right? Some confusion is understandable.
But fortunately there are some notable difference between Braxton Hicks and the oh-snap-the-baby’s-coming-now contractions. Factors such as pain, predictability, and strength will help you figure out what’s going on with your body. Of course, if there is any confusion or something feels off, you should give your doctor a call or head to the hospital for confirmation. But if you’re trying to save yourself an uncomfortable car ride, here is a quick rundown of the ways Braxton Hicks contractions differ from labor contractions.