Braxton Hicks vs. True Labour Contractions: How to Tell the Difference

Understanding the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labour contractions is a crucial part of antenatal care. As your pregnancy progresses, particularly during the third trimester, you may experience various types of contractions. While both Braxton Hicks and true labour contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, knowing how to distinguish between the two can help ensure you’re prepared for the big day when labour arrives.

In this article, we’ll explore the characteristics of Braxton Hicks contractions and true labour contractions, provide guidance on how to differentiate them, and discuss how antenatal support can help you manage both experiences. We’ll also review the role of antenatal care, including antenatal appointments and how practices like antenatal yoga, prenatal massage, and antenatal education can support your comfort and confidence as you approach your due date.

What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

1. Overview of Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are often referred to as “practice contractions.” They are irregular, non-painful contractions that occur during the second and third trimesters. Named after the British doctor who first described them in the 19th century, these contractions prepare the uterus for true labour, but they are not indicative of the onset of labour.

For many women, Braxton Hicks contractions are a common experience, especially as the pregnancy advances. They may start as early as the second trimester but are typically felt more frequently in the final weeks before birth.

2. Characteristics of Braxton Hicks Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are usually:

Irregular: These contractions occur intermittently and do not follow a consistent pattern.

Painless or mildly uncomfortable: Unlike true labour contractions, Braxton Hicks contractions do not usually cause significant pain. They may feel like a tightening or hardening of the abdomen.

Short in duration: These contractions generally last anywhere from 30 seconds to 2 minutes.

Infrequent: They may come and go throughout the day, but not in a regular pattern.

Relieved by movement or rest: Braxton Hicks contractions often subside when you change positions, walk around, drink water, or relax.

While they are a normal part of pregnancy, it’s essential to monitor these contractions, especially if they increase in frequency or intensity, as this could indicate the onset of preterm labour.

What Are True Labour Contractions?

1. Overview of True Labour Contractions

True labour contractions are the real thing—they signal the beginning of active labour. Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, which are irregular and often harmless, true labour contractions occur at regular intervals and increase in intensity over time.

True labour contractions are a sign that your body is preparing for birth. As you approach your due date, these contractions become more frequent, stronger, and more painful. They work to dilate your cervix and help move your baby down the birth canal.

2. Characteristics of True Labour Contractions

True labour contractions are typically:

Regular and consistent: The timing between contractions becomes shorter, and the contractions get closer together as labour progresses. For example, you may start with contractions every 10 minutes, which will eventually progress to 5 minutes apart.

Increasing in intensity: True labour contractions become stronger and more painful over time. They are often described as a feeling of intense cramping or lower back pain.

Longer in duration: These contractions usually last between 45 and 60 seconds.

Not relieved by movement: Changing positions or walking around does not usually relieve true labour contractions. The pain typically intensifies as time goes on.

Painful: Unlike Braxton Hicks contractions, true labour contractions are painful and increase in severity.

True labour contractions signal the start of active labour, so they require immediate attention from your healthcare team. If you’re uncertain whether you’re experiencing true labour, it’s always best to contact your antenatal clinic for advice and guidance.

How to Tell the Difference Between Braxton Hicks and True Labour Contractions

1. Timing and Regularity

One of the most reliable ways to distinguish between Braxton Hicks and true labour contractions is by tracking their timing and regularity. Braxton Hicks contractions are usually irregular and do not follow a consistent pattern. On the other hand, true labour contractions become regular and frequent, with the time between contractions gradually shortening as labour progresses.

Braxton Hicks: May come and go unpredictably, without a regular pattern.

True Labour: Contractions become progressively more frequent, with shorter intervals between each contraction.

2. Pain and Intensity

While Braxton Hicks contractions are generally painless or mildly uncomfortable, true labour contractions are much more intense and often cause significant pain. True labour contractions often feel like strong cramps, tightness in the abdomen, or lower back pain, whereas Braxton Hicks are generally less intense and do not cause significant discomfort.

Braxton Hicks: Mild or no pain, feeling of tightening in the belly.

True Labour: Intense cramping or lower back pain, progressively worsening over time.

3. Duration of the Contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions are shorter in duration and usually last about 30 seconds to 2 minutes. In contrast, true labour contractions typically last 45-60 seconds and become longer as labour progresses.

Braxton Hicks: Short, typically under 2 minutes.

True Labour: Longer, lasting 45-60 seconds.

4. Relief with Movement

Braxton Hicks contractions are often alleviated by changes in position, drinking water, or resting. If you experience Braxton Hicks, moving around or lying down may help stop the contractions. True labour contractions, however, are not easily relieved by any changes in activity, and they tend to get stronger even if you move around.

Braxton Hicks: May stop or ease with rest, hydration, or change of position.

True Labour: Continue and increase in intensity, regardless of activity.

How to Prepare for Labour with Antenatal Care

1. Prenatal Care and Regular Appointments

One of the best ways to ensure a positive birth experience is through regular antenatal appointments. These appointments allow your healthcare provider to monitor your pregnancy, check on your baby’s position, and ensure that you are on track for a healthy delivery. Your antenatal care team will discuss your birth plan, provide advice on how to manage contractions, and support you in making informed decisions about your birth.

During these appointments, your doctor or midwife may assess whether you’re experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or signs of early labour. By tracking your progress, they can help guide you through the remaining weeks of your pregnancy.

2. Antenatal Support: Yoga and Massage

As you approach the final stages of pregnancy, taking time for antenatal support can help ease tension and prepare your body for the demands of labour. Both antenatal yoga and prenatal massage are highly beneficial for pregnant women, helping to improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.

Antenatal Yoga can help you stay active, reduce the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions, and maintain mental clarity as you approach labour. It offers specific stretches and breathing techniques that can help you manage both Braxton Hicks and true labour contractions.

Prenatal massage can relieve discomfort from back pain, swelling, and stress. It is particularly effective for relaxation during pregnancy, helping you feel calm and centred.

Conclusion: Knowing the Difference and When to Seek Help

Knowing the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labour contractions is essential as you approach the birth of your baby. While Braxton Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, true labour contractions indicate that your body is preparing for delivery.

By tracking the frequency, intensity, and timing of your contractions, you can better assess whether you’re experiencing early signs of labour. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your antenatal clinic for guidance if you’re unsure about your symptoms. Antenatal care, along with support from your healthcare provider, prenatal care, and practices like antenatal yoga and massage for pregnancy, can provide the reassurance and relief you need during this exciting and sometimes overwhelming time.