Thu 4 Dec 2008 | You are here: Home > Birth > Having another baby? > Braxton Hicks: worse second time around?
left col

How many Christmas parties will you be going to?


Disclaimer

The material contained on these pages is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or advice and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment. Answers to specific problems may not apply to everyone. If you're worried, see your GP.
Braxton Hicks: worse second time around?
  • Braxton Hicks: worse second time around?

  • Are you likely to suffer more from Braxton Hicks with baby No 2?

Barxton Hicks are irregular contractions or tightenings  of your womb. They are usally painless but can be felt from as early as 16 weeks and increase as your pregnancy progresses.

Some women who have had a baby before can experience quite uncomfortable Braxton Hicks contractions. This is quite normal.

If you are far advanced in your pregnancy, it is useful to know how to spot the difference between Braxton Hicks and true labour.

Braxton Hicks tend to be irregular and can vary in length whereas real labour contractions are often more regular, lasting at least 30 seconds and getting progressively longer.

Braxton Hicks can also stop or slow down if you move around, and this does not happen in real labour.

If you have any concerns about pains, contact your midwife so you can be assessed. This will help reassure you. 


Waters broke watching The Simpsons

Watching The Simpsons led to the onset of labour for young mum Charlotte....

Gran's birth story

When Chloe was sent home from hospital, baby Rhianna was born at her Gran's house. ...

Waters only broke right at the end

The hardest thing for Jennifer was being told not to push out the baby, although her body was...

So proud of my no epidural birth

Katie endured two days' hard labour - but would do it all again...

The birth was wonderful!

Danielle was terrified of labour, but baby Macie arrived quickly and easily in the end....

Show all articles on this topic.

  • unusual problem

  • My lo goes though this every few months. My first suggestion is teething. If it's this I find a...
  • Posted by nessellis 04 Dec 2008 10:18PM
  • weekly chat please join in

  • hello, hope all those babys and mumy that are feeling poorly get better before Christmas arrives...
  • Posted by Joey08 04 Dec 2008 10:16PM
  • Just to let u know..

  • My thoughts are with you both. I am so sorry you are going through this nightmare. Be strong for...
  • Posted by Niblett 04 Dec 2008 10:15PM
  • wish me luck!

  • awww Filo - I hope all goes well for you & your bubba - can;t wait to hear all about it & see...
  • Posted by jbean 04 Dec 2008 10:15PM
CONTACT | FAQ | PRIVACY | TERMS & CONDITIONS | ADVERTISERS | TOP
The National Magazine Company Ltd. © Copyright 2008
SEARCH OUR NETWORK: All About You :: Baby Expert :: Cosmopolitan :: Get Lippy :: Handbag :: Harper's Bazaar :: Men's Health :: Net Doctor :: Runner's World :: You & Your Wedding