What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks are sometimes called 'false' or 'practice' contractions. They're a normal part of pregnancy that can come and go. They happen when the muscles in your uterus (womb) contract.

If you feel tightening or pressure in your abdomen (tummy) during your pregnancy, you may be having Braxton Hicks contractions.

Braxton Hicks contractions don't cause labour and aren't a sign that labour is beginning.

If you're not sure whether you're experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions or actual labour, contact your doctor or midwife.

​​​​​​​What do Braxton Hicks contractions feel like?

Braxton Hicks contractions feel like the muscles across your belly are tightening.

Braxton Hicks contractions come irregularly and usually last for about 30 seconds. However, they can last for up to 2 minutes. While they can be uncomfortable, they usually aren't painful.

​​​​​​​When do you get Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions can occur from early in your pregnancy, but you may not feel them until the second trimester. They are most often felt in the third trimester.

In late pregnancy, you may experience Braxton Hicks contractions more often.

​Why do Braxton Hicks contractions happen?

Braxton Hicks contractions prepare your body for giving birth by toning the muscles in your uterus.

​​​​​​​When should I call my midwife or doctor?

Call your midwife or doctor or go to the hospital if:

• your waters break
• you have contractions that are getting stronger, closer together and more regular

At any stage of pregnancy, you should contact your doctor or midwife immediately if you:

• have persistent pain in your abdomen (tummy)
• have vaginal bleeding
• are concerned about your baby's movements
• feel very unwell

If you're in doubt, don't hesitate to call your doctor or midwife for advice.

​​​​​​​How are Braxton Hicks contractions different from labour pain?

Real labour contractions:

• open or dilate your cervix
• last 30 to 70 seconds
• are painful or require all of your attention
• become very regular, and get closer together as time passes
• last longer as time passes
• get stronger or come more often when you walk
• get stronger over time

GLOSSARY OF PREGNANCY AND LABOUR — Glossary of common terms and abbreviations used by health professionals in pregnancy and labour.

​​​​​​​How can I ease the discomfort or treat Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are normal and don't need treatment.

If you feel uncomfortable, you can try:

• lying down or changing position
• taking a walk
• relaxing in a warm bath or shower
• applying a heat pack
• having a drink of water to stay hydrated
• urinating (weeing)

It may help to practise your breathing exercises during your Braxton Hicks contractions.

Call your midwife if the contractions don't ease up.

Can Braxton Hicks contractions be prevented?

There is no way to prevent Braxton Hicks contractions. They are a normal part of pregnancy.

However, you may be able to minimise how much Braxton Hicks contractions bother you by:

• resting
• staying well hydrated
• avoiding constipation

​Resources and support

For more information about Braxton Hicks contractions speak to your midwife.

Visit Australian Birth Stories to read or listen to other people's experience of Braxton Hicks contractions.

Read more about early signs of labour.