braxton hicks vs contractions
Braxton Hicks vs Real Contractions — How to Tell the Difference
Braxton Hicks are usually irregular and do not steadily intensify. Labour contractions develop a pattern, become stronger and longer, and are more likely to continue through movement, hydration and rest.
Reviewed and updated:
Braxton Hicks often
- Stay irregular
- Ease after rest, hydration or position change
- Feel mainly like tightening
- Do not progressively get longer and stronger
Labour contractions more often
- Build a repeatable rhythm
- Become stronger and harder to talk through
- Last longer and move closer together
- Continue despite changing activity
If you are unsure
Call maternity triage. Early labour can be ambiguous, and the right threshold depends on gestation, previous births, distance to hospital and your individual care plan.
Common questions
Can real contractions be irregular at first?
Yes. Early labour can be irregular before a clearer pattern develops.