What are Practice Contractions?

Also known as braxton hicks, they can be difficult to ascertain whether labour is actually starting, especially if it's your first pregnancy when every twinge and niggle instantly makes you focus inwards more. For some women, Braxton Hicks can feel like tightenings or menstrual cramping. The key thing to note is that these are short lived and don't build up in intensity to regular contractions. They can be painful and annoying to experience throughout the day but this is all normal and show things are progressing by preparing the uterus for labour and allowing the cervix to soften.

How to cope with Practice Contractions?

Just like in early labour, changing positions, practicing breathing and rest can help settle them. When I experienced braxton hicks in my second pregnancy I would notice that stress and rushing around after my toddler would bring them on so I would try to prioritise rest as much as I could with a toddler who had dropped their nap. As it was winter we could stay in and watch some films together to help us both rest. I remember going away to my brothers wedding at 37 weeks pregnant and we walked some distance from where our accommodation was in to town and back and having to stop many times and leaning over because of braxton hicks so it to then pass very quickly and going back to walking normally.

Breathing for Braxton Hicks

When you are experiencing tightenings treat these like a practice run before the big event! You can breathe through them like you would in early labour - breathing in for 4 through the nose and out for more through your mouth. This will help the muscles to relax, not just in the uterus but the whole body. Then priorise more rest, this is your body's way of saying rest more and preserve your energy before the big day.

Good luck Muma! If you have any questions feel free to leave me a message.

Rhi x