What Are Braxton-Hicks Contractions?

These contractions also known as false labor are actually something that is called sporadic uterine contractions.
These, although starting as early as six weeks won't be noticeable until mid to late pregnancy.
Their name "Braxton-Hicks" comes from an English physician named John Braxton Hicks.
Although these contractions though most are none painful are thought to be harmless you should always take note of them and discuss them with your doctor or midwife.
In your later pregnancy, If you haven't come on to your 37th week yet and are experiencing Braxton-hicks contractions or what you think to be Braxton-hicks four or more times in a given hour you should call your doctor or midwife as soon as possible.
The final few weeks before your babies due date, these contractions will become more intense andwill seem to be more frequent and will be uncomfortable.
At this point in your pregnancy (pre-labor), these are your bodies way of getting your cervix "ready" and slowly soften for childbirth.
Before you go into labor, these contractions may become close together and become painful.
They often fool expectant moms and dads into thinking that labor has began.
If your Braxton-hicks contractions are becoming uncomfortable, sometimes walking or changing your current position can help relive the pain, Water has been known to help so drink a glass or two because it has been found out that Braxton-hicks contractions have been known to be brought on by dehydration.
Breathing exercises always help so try some relaxing breathing exercises.
Many of these things can be learned from your local child birthing classes which can be found at the hospital that you plan to give birth at.