Fortunately, in the great majority of cases this is not true. Most likely you are experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions (often called practice contractions). This is a fairly common occurrence in the third trimester but pretty rare in the second trimester
The muscles of the uterus tighten for up to 30 to 60 seconds and rarely for up to two full minutes which can be uncomfortable for some and might be a little bit scary. Some women say it gives them a chance to practice exercises they are learning in childbirth classes.
These contractions, which can occur at almost any time in your pregnancy, are irregular in frequency. They are not spaced at regular intervals, and not rhythmic. They can be uncomfortable but are not painful and do not increase in intensity as time passes.
If your contractions ease up then they are likely Braxton Hicks contractions and probably not true labor pains.
Does anyone know what causes these contractions? Not really! However there are some theories. Braxton Hicks contractions may help tone the uterine musculature. It is like a trial run for the big day. They help increase and maintain proper blood flow to the placenta. While there is no connection to cervical dilation, they may have a role in softening it.
Why do some women get Braxton Hicks in their second trimester which is unusual, some in the third, and others never experience them at all? Nobody really knows. For those who do get the contractions, there are a few activities that trigger these episodes:
If you or the baby are very active
Someone touches your belly which in some cultures is considered good luck
A full bladder
Sex
Dehydration
This seems to suggest that tactile stimulation might be a part of the process. Is there anything that can be done to ease the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions? Yes there are a few things you can do that may at least temporarily stop the Braxton Hicks contractions or at least alleviate some of the symptoms.
Change your position. If you are sitting, lie down or stand up. When in bed, if you are on your right side, switch to the left or vice-versa. If on your back, roll over on your side.
Try soaking in a lukewarm bath for no longer than 20 to 30 minutes. It seems to calm spasms.
Drink a couple of glasses of water, warm herbal tea or a glass of milk.
Try listening to soft music. If the episode is being caused by the baby’s activity, the music may quite him.
Take a leisurely walk, the rhythmic movements may also help.
Sometimes slow, even breathing can help you relax and deal with the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions.
Get as much sleep as possible. Since unborn babies tend to be active in the early evening, go to bed later than usual.
Instead of three large meals, eat five or six smaller ones.
Drink a lot of fluids but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Actually alcohol isn’t recommended at all during pregnancy.
Keep your bladder empty as a full bladder can irritate the uterus and so provoke irregular patterns of contractions.
Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes called “false labor”, especially late in pregnancy when it can be difficult to be sure if it is the real thing or not and if this is your first pregnancy you can’t really be sure.
Let’s get back to where you are now, in your second trimester and experiencing contractions. Remember that if your contractions are irregularly spaced, uncomfortable but not painful, and tend to go away after awhile, you are probably experiencing Braxton Hicks which can likely be eased by using some of the tips in this article.
However if your contractions become regularly spaced and more than four contractions in an hour which are intense and painful, and you are passing fluid vaginally, call your health care professional or go to the emergency room immediately as this can be a sign of pre-term labor. It is better to err on the side of caution than to risk your own life and that of your baby.
Even if your contractions are irregular in their timing, if they make you feel unable to function, check with the midwife or doctor. They can reassure you that what you are experiencing, although not common or within the range of normal, is not a threat to you or your baby and will rule out the chance of pre-term labor. Do you wonder whether or not you might be at risk for pre-term labor? Do you have any of these risk factors?
A history of pre-term labor
Have an STD
Are you an older mother? (40+)
Substance abuse
Multiple gestation (are you pregnant with two or more babies?)
If you have any of these risk factors, make sure your doctor is aware of it so that you and your baby can be closely monitored.
Your health care provider is there to help you through your pregnancy and delivery. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The only stupid questions are the ones you don’t ask.
She will help you learn to manage your second trimester contractions without worry. Sit back, relax and enjoy your pregnancy journey.
