by Eleanor O'Donnell

Created on: July 30, 2008   Last Updated: July 11, 2009

Braxton Hicks contractions take their name from Doctor John Braxton Hicks, the first person to medically document them in 1872. Today there is still no positive affirmation about why we experience these "practice contractions" however the strongest, most agreed upon theory is that they're a way of helping the cervix ripen for labour. Whatever their purpose, most women will experience them at some point in their pregnancy so it can be helpful to know exactly what it is you're likely to experience.

Braxton Hicks contractions are allegedly painless uterine contractions that take place during the middle to end stages of pregnancy. For many they are indeed painless and a lucky few won't even feel a thing. Others will unfortunately feel as though they are experiencing mild period cramps on and off for a few weeks or months on the run up to giving birth. Despite the irritation and discomfort that Braxton Hicks can cause for some, they should not be seriously painful or last for more than about a minute each time.

You should be able to distinguish easily between Braxton Hicks contractions and labour contractions, as labour contractions are far more intense, frequent and physically painful. A Braxton Hicks contraction should not stop you from going about your normal activities whereas a labour contraction will do as the labour progresses. That said, it can be advisable to take the opportunity to practice breathing exercises and treat Braxton Hicks as practice runs when they occur.

If you find that your Braxton Hicks contractions are causing you pain or considerable discomfort then it may help to consult your doctor or midwife about the possibility of taking a mild pain killer or making use a tens machine suitable for use in pregnancy to help with any discomfort. Warm baths may also help to ease any discomfort by helping the uterus and lower back muscles to relax.

If you feel that your Braxton Hicks contractions may actually be labour contractions and you're less than 37 weeks pregnant you should consult your doctor or midwife immediately. Similarly you should seek medical advice if you experience a regularity and high intensity of contractions or there is any vaginal bleeding or discharge. Although you may feel slightly foolish at bothering your medical professional with practice contractions, it's far better to address a problem that never was, than ignore a problem that might soon be.

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