Braxton Hicks contractions are often called “practice” or “false labor” contractions. They can be uncomfortable—and sometimes painful—but they do not cause the progressive cervical change that defines true labor.
How Braxton Hicks contractions often behave
- They are irregular and do not settle into a steadily closer pattern.
- They do not consistently become longer or stronger.
- They may ease with rest, hydration, walking, or a change of position.
- Discomfort is often felt mainly in the front of the abdomen.
How true labor often behaves
- Contractions come at regular intervals and move closer together.
- They become stronger over time and often last about 60 to 90 seconds.
- They continue despite rest or movement.
- Pain may begin in the back and move toward the front.
These patterns are helpful, but they are not a diagnosis. Sometimes the only way to confirm labor is an examination showing that the cervix is changing.
What you can do
Time several contractions from the start of one to the start of the next, and note how long each lasts. Try resting, drinking water, emptying your bladder, or changing position. Follow the specific calling instructions your maternity care team gave you.
Call your clinician or birth unit if
- You think labor may have started or you cannot tell the difference.
- Your water breaks or you have a steady trickle of fluid.
- Contractions become regular, stronger, or closer together.
- You are less than 37 weeks pregnant and have frequent tightening, pelvic pressure, backache, cramps, discharge changes, or leaking fluid.
Seek urgent care now if
- You have heavy vaginal bleeding.
- You have constant severe pain between contractions.
- Your baby's movement has slowed or stopped.
- You have trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, severe headache, vision changes, or another urgent maternal warning sign.
This article is for general education. Your own clinician's instructions take priority, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or a history of preterm birth.
