im only 24 weeks and ive been feeling these tightening sensations on and off. Got me thinking how early can real contractions even start? Bit worried, will mention to gynac but curious what others experienced.
I am planning my pregnancy and reading about Braxton Hicks vs real contractions is so intimidating! How do you actually tell the difference between normal stretching and actual early contractions?
Braxton Hicks contractions can start around the second trimester; they are just your uterus practicing and are usually irregular and painless. However, if you experience regular, painful contractions before 37 weeks, it could be preterm labor and you must contact your OB-GYN immediately.
You can start feeling mild, painless contractions called Braxton Hicks as early as the second trimester, around 20 weeks. But if they are painful, regular, or accompanied by leaking, stop searching online and head to the hospital immediately.
I recently delivered and started getting mild Braxton Hicks around week 24. They felt like a sudden tightening of the belly but went away when I changed positions. If they don't stop or feel like painful period cramps, please call your doctor right away.
Mild tightening can happen early if you are dehydrated, so drinking a big glass of water and lying down usually helps. But if these contractions are regular and painful, it could be preterm labor. Please call your doctor immediately for serious symptoms like this.
