Im in my third trimester and keep feeling my tummy go tight and then relax, sometimes randomly. I get confused which ones are the normal practice ones and which are not. how did u know the difference?
My gynac explained the practice contractions (Braxton Hicks) are usually irregular, ease when you change position or drink water, and dont increase. True labour contractions get regular, longer and more intense over time. She said timing them is the trick to know the difference.
I felt my belly go hard for a few seconds last week and got scared. Someone told me its the practice ones. Did u all feel them too in second trimester? It went away when I rested.
Braxton Hicks are the normal practice contractions, tummy goes tight then relaxes, irregular and not painful. Real labour ones come in a pattern, get closer and stronger. If they are regular and painful before your due time, call doctor.
Occasional tightening that comes and goes is usually fine. But if you get regular painful contractions, back pain, pressure or any leaking or bleeding before 37 weeks, please call your doctor at once, that can be early labour.
The harmless ones feel like a tightening that loosens up if you rest or sip water. The ones to act on are the ones with a steady rhythm that keep coming back stronger. When in doubt, lie down, drink water and time them, if they dont settle call your gynac.
