Get to know the difference between Braxton Hicks and real contractions so you're prepared when they hit. Braxton Hicks are mild contractions that don't cause actual pain. Your baby bump might tighten up, become hard, then go back to normal.
The sensation, which might resemble menstrual cramps, usually lasts between 30 seconds and two minutes. Braxton Hicks contractions happen irregularly; they're very sporadic and don't occur in a pattern, the way real contractions do. Some women have them several times a day; others don't seem to have them at all. Most women notice Braxton Hicks contractions in the second trimester around 20 weeks—but they may come earlier and be more intense if you've been pregnant before.
Braxton Hicks contractions happen when the uterus "rehearses" for delivery. Experts believe they may actually do some of the early work of labor by helping to soften and dilate your cervix.
Many women can't pinpoint exactly what triggers their Braxton Hicks contractions. However, they tend to feel more intense and happen more often as pregnancy progresses. Some people notice them more after exercise and intercourse, or if they're dehydrated. Braxton Hicks contractions also frequently appear at the end of the day, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
It's thought that once the hustle-and-bustle of the day calms down, moms-to-be are simply more apt to tune into these mild contractions. Baby Products. Trouble sleeping.
The closer you get to your due date, the tougher it might be to get some rest. Watch your caffeine intake, stay hydrated and get a little exercise take walks! Call your doctor if your swelling seems worrisome.
These are often due to hormone fluctuations or stress. Pregnancy brain. Is it getting tricky to remember stuff? Braxton Hicks contractions. Notice your belly occasionally feeling really tight? Yep, already. If an immediate member of your family has diabetes, or you were overweight at the start of your pregnancy, chances are you have already been tested for this. In case you are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, you should know that it is associated with some pregnancy and delivery complications, such as large birth weight babies macrosomia and an increased risk of cesarean delivery.
Women with gestational diabetes may be asked to monitor their blood sugar regularly and modify their meals a bit based on how much sugar and carbs they can safely eat. Your doctor should be able to answer any specific questions you have. You may also want to speak with a dietitian or other health professional for more expert nutritional guidance. Things to do this week for a healthy pregnancy. Any reading or talking will do.
One study from the journal Developmental Psychobiology measured how the fetal heartbeat responded to both maternal and paternal voices. Some speculate that the benefits are actually from the relaxation and lower stress that mothers experience from sitting down and reading to their belly.
Either way, scheduling regular story time is a great excuse to slow down and enjoy this special time. Eat well, move more If you have been maintaining a mostly healthy diet, try not to stress over any not-so-great choices.
There are some serious benefits to preventing too much weight gain during pregnancy. Now is the time to be at or go to the hospital or birthing centre. If your bag of waters amniotic sac has not broken before this, it may now. If you have taken a labour class and learned how to do special breathing during contractions, you will want to begin the special breathing now. Blahd Jr.
Author: Healthwise Staff. Medical Review: William H. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
Top of the page. Topic Overview Regular contractions may mean that your uterine muscle is tightening Braxton Hicks contractions or that you are in labour.
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