Since we’ve focused on pregnancy for the last several blogs, this month we’re going to focus your baby’s arrival. It’s an exciting (and potentially frightening) time, so it’s best to be as prepared as possible. The first topic we’ll discuss in our “Labor & Delivery Series” is false labor vs. preterm labor.
Many women experience Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as false labor. Although they can begin anytime during your pregnancy, you may not actually feel them until later in pregnancy. Braxton Hicks are irregular, infrequent, and may stop when you change positions. They are also very common.
Preterm labor occurs when you go into labor before 37 weeks of gestation. The contractions are preparing your body for the baby’s birth. During preterm labor, your contractions will increase in frequency and intensity, continuing even when you change positions. Your doctor may place you on bed rest or prescribe medication to slow down or stop your labor.
Whether you’re experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, there are some things you can do to help relieve the pain, such as:
- Get off your feet and rest
- Take a warm (not hot) bath
- Drink 1-2 glasses of water
- Breathe slowly and deeply
When to Call Your Doctor
In general, you should call your doctor or midwife if you experience:
- More than four contractions per hour
- Watery or bloody discharge
- Intense pressure in your pelvic area
- Low back pain or pressure
Our best advice is to pay attention to your body and contact your Capital Women’s Care provider if something doesn’t feel right.