Braxton Hicks vs Contractions: How to Tell the Difference 

If practice makes perfect, Braxton Hicks contractions are definitely doing their part. These “practice” contractions help your body gear up for the real deal by exercising your uterine muscles. Think of them as your uterus rehearsing for childbirth. 

 Braxton hicks are a normal and expected part of pregnancy starting in the third trimester. If you’ve never experienced them, they may be confusing or even convincing enough to make you think you’re really in labor. Fortunately, there are some key differences between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions. Let’s break them down. 

What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions? 

Also called “false labor” or “practice contractions,” these tightenings can begin as early as six weeks into pregnancy, though most women don’t feel them until the second or third trimester. In fact, women most commonly experience Braxton Hicks in the final weeks of the third trimester, and they become increasingly frequent as their due date approaches. That timing can make it tough to tell if they’re just Braxton Hicks or signs of early labor. 

 Braxton Hicks contractions can feel different for everyone. Some women describe them as mild menstrual cramps, while others feel a distinct tightening across the belly. Whether they’re barely noticeable or a little uncomfortable, they’re a completely normal part of the pregnancy journey. 

 Fun fact: Braxton Hicks contractions are named after Dr. John Braxton Hicks, the 19th-century English doctor who first described them in 1872, so we’ve known about them for a long time. 

So What Are Contractions? 

Contractions are the tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles, which push the baby down the birth canal during labor. With Braxton Hicks, this process helps tone the uterus and may aid in softening the cervix in preparation for delivery. Unlike real contractions, this practice run doesn’t cause cervical dilation but may help increase blood flow to the placenta and improve uterine efficiency. 

What Can Trigger Braxton Hicks Contractions? 

Braxton Hicks contractions can happen at any time on their own, but they’re also more likely under certain conditions, like: 

• A full bladder (or after emptying it) 
• Physical activity or overexertion 
• Lifting heavy objects 
• Sexual activity 
• Fetal movement 
• Dehydration 

When to be Concerned About Braxton Hicks 

Braxton Hicks are harmless and normal. However, there are a few key signs to watch out for. If your contractions are intensifying or getting longer as time passes, you have vaginal bleeding, or notice decreased fetal movement, then it’s time to call your healthcare provider.  

4 Ways to Tell It’s Braxton Hicks (Not Real Labor) 

When you start feeling those tightening sensations (especially in the third trimester), how can you tell whether it's go-time or just a dress rehearsal? Here’s how to spot the differences. 

1. The Contractions Are Irregular 

Unlike true labor contractions, which come at steady intervals and get closer together over time, Braxton Hicks contractions are inconsistent. They may be spaced out randomly, last from 30 seconds to two minutes, and then disappear. If your contractions don’t form a clear pattern or grow progressively stronger, they’re likely Braxton Hicks. 

2. They’re Not as Intense 

True labor contractions ramp up in intensity over time. You’ll likely feel a deep, growing pressure that becomes impossible to ignore, and even harder to talk or walk through. 

 Braxton Hicks contractions, by contrast, are usually more uncomfortable than painful. They may feel strong at times, but they don’t escalate the way real labor contractions do. They also tend to fade away rather than build in force. 

3. They Ease Up When You Move 

If the sensation lessens or goes away entirely when you change positions, rest, or go for a short walk, they’re probably Braxton Hicks. True labor contractions persist regardless of what you're doing, and can even intensify with activity. 

4. They Go Away With a Glass of Water 

One of the most common causes of Braxton Hicks contractions? Dehydration. If you start feeling uterine tightness and find that drinking a glass or two of water makes them vanish, that’s a good clue they weren’t true labor contractions. 

 In actual labor, staying hydrated is still essential, but sipping water won’t make your contractions go away. 

When to Call Your Doctor or Midwife 

Yes, you absolutely can get pregnant with irregular periods. But it may be harder to pinpoint when you're ovulating, which can make it more challenging to conceive. That said, many people with irregular cycles go on to have healthy pregnancies. 

How to Boost Your Chances of Getting Pregnant with Irregular Periods 

Contractions alone don’t always mean it’s time to grab your hospital bag, but it’s important to know when to check in with your care provider. 

 Most practitioners suggest calling when: 

• Your contractions last about a minute 
• They come every five minutes 
• This pattern continues for at least an hour (the “5-1-1” rule) 

 If you’ve had complications during your pregnancy, your provider may recommend that you call sooner. Some signs that mean you should immediately call your provider are vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, decreased fetal movement, and contractions before 37 weeks. 

 If the contractions are brief, irregular, or disappear with rest and water, it’s likely a false alarm. Still, when in doubt, trust your instincts and reach out to your provider. 

Final Thoughts: Don’t Second-Guess Yourself 

Braxton Hicks contractions are just one more sign that your body is doing exactly what it’s supposed to as it prepares for labor. While they can be confusing or even a little stressful at times, knowing what to expect—and how to tell them apart from the real thing—can help you feel more confident as you approach delivery day. 

 And remember: You don’t have to be the expert. Your care team is always here to help, so please don't hesitate to call with any questions or concerns. You’ve got this.