Braxton Hicks contractions, are sporadic uterine contractions that sometimes start around six weeks into a pregnancy. However, they are not usually felt until the second trimester or third trimester of pregnancy.
All women and all pregnancies are different. Some women don’t experience Braxton Hicks contractions, while others begin to feel these contractions by the time they are six weeks pregnant. Most women begin to feel these contractions in the second trimester, after which they continue until actual labor begins.
Braxton Hicks Contractions are often infrequent, irregular, and involve only mild cramping. As pregnancy goes on Braxton Hicks contractions go from unnoticeable amounts of pain signals to irregular, infrequent cramping to strong frequent cramping and then finally labor pains.
Some experts believe they play a part in building up the uterine muscle and pumping blood to the placenta. Some believe there is a connection with the softening of the cervix. There are triggers connected with Braxton Hicks contractions:
- Dehydration
- Full bladder
- Intercourse
- Someone touching your belly
Unfortunately, there is no treatment for Braxton Hicks contractions, but there are things you can do to help you deal with them:
- Take a warm bath
- Drink more water
- Take deep breaths
- Take a walk
- Drink warm fluids such as herbal tea
- Get a massage
- Eat a small meal or snack
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