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21 years
I'm pregnant and I'm experiencing something like fou23at with shivering in my stomach, it's not the baby's movement. It happens every now and then during the day, what is it?
Nov 2, 2014
2nd opinion

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as prodromal labor or practice contractions, or incorrectly as false labor, are sporadic uterine contractions that sometimes start as early as six weeks into a pregnancy. However, they are not usually felt until the second trimester or third trimester of pregnancy. They occur because of tightening of the uterine muscles for approximately 30 to 60 seconds and sometimes last for as long as two minutes. It's theorized that these contractions aid the body in its preparation for birth. Not all pregnant women get these contractions.

Some doctors believe that these contractions have a role in increasing the muscle tone of the uterus and enhancing the flow of blood to the placenta. They are not thought to have a role in dilating the cervix (so they don't have a role in active labor), but might have some impact on the softening of the cervix. However, as Braxton Hicks contractions intensify nearer the time of delivery, the contractions are often referred to as false labor. When this occurs, it can help the dilation and effacement process.

Braxton Hicks Contractions are often infrequent, irregular, and involve only mild cramping. They are described as:
Irregular in intensity
Infrequent
Unpredictable
Non-rhythmic
More uncomfortable than painful (although for some women Braxton Hicks can feel painful)
They do not increase in intensity, or frequency
They taper off and then disappear altogether
If your contractions are easing up in any way, they are most likely Braxton Hicks.

Precipitating factors:
-Dehydration: can induce muscle spasm, bringing on a contraction, and is thought to be a factor in extended Braxton Hicks contractions.
-When mother or the baby are very active
-If someone touches the mother’s belly
-A full bladder
-Sexual intercourse

What helps alleviate Braxton Hicks contractions?
-Rhythmic breathing may alleviate the discomfort of Braxton Hicks contractions.
-Lying down on the left side can help ease the pain of contractions.
-A slight change in position: you can try to can lie down if you have been standing or go for a walk if you have been sitting or laying
-A warm bath for 30 minutes or less sometimes makes the contractions disappear.
-Urination (if full bladder) may end the contractions.
-Drinking something warm.

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