Fake or Real Contractions? Here's How to Tell the Difference

Entering the third trimester of pregnancy, Moms may start to feel a tightening or hardening sensation of the abdomen known as contractions. These contractions are a natural part of labor preparation. However, did you know that there are two types of contractions, false contractions (Braxton Hicks) and genuine contractions?

Differentiating between the two is important, especially for Moms who are pregnant for the first time. This article will fully discuss the difference between false and genuine contractions, so you don't have to worry and panic when you experience them.

What are Contractions?

Contractions are contractions of the uterine muscles that occur periodically during labor. These uterine muscles are like balloons that contain the baby, placenta, and amniotic fluid. Labor contractions work by tightening and releasing the uterine muscles, pushing the baby down through the birth canal. Labor contractions usually feel like waves that get stronger and more frequent over time.

What are False Contractions (Braxton Hicks)?

False contractions, also known as Braxton Hicks, are irregular contractions of the uterine muscles and are not associated with labor. These contractions often occur in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. False contractions help train the uterine muscles for actual labor, and are usually painless.

Although painless, false contractions can sometimes make Moms feel uncomfortable. These contractions can make the abdomen feel tight, like it's having a mild cramp. False contractions can also cause pressure on the lower back.

Difference between False and Real Contractions

Moms may be confused about the difference between fake and genuine contractions. Here are some key differences to note:

Time Difference

False contractions: False contractions can occur at any time during pregnancy, but are more common in the second and third trimesters. These contractions can occur several times a day or even a week. The triggering factors for false contractions can vary, such as dehydration, a full bladder, physical activity, or after sexual intercourse.
Genuine contractions: Genuine contractions generally only appear when the pregnancy is around 37-40 weeks old. These contractions become more frequent and stronger over time. Usually, they will appear regularly with shorter intervals, indicating that labor is approaching.

Difference in Duration

False contractions: False contractions usually last less than 30 seconds to 2 minutes and are irregular. The pattern of false contractions can appear several times an hour, but the time interval is unpredictable.
Genuine contractions: Genuine contractions usually last 30-70 seconds and become longer over time. They also become more regular and frequent. The interval between genuine contractions will shorten, for example, from 10 minutes to 5 minutes, then 3 minutes, and so on.

Difference in Sensation

False contractions: False contractions usually feel like a tightening or tightening sensation in the abdomen. These contractions may feel like mild cramping or pressure in the lower back. The pain felt due to false contractions is usually temporary and does not get worse.
Genuine contractions: Genuine contractions feel like waves that get stronger and more frequent. These contractions may feel like cramping, pressure, or pain in the abdomen, lower back, and thighs. The pain felt from genuine contractions usually gets heavier and does not go away with a change in position. Genuine contractions can sometimes be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Knowing the difference between fake and genuine contractions can help you feel calmer and more prepared as labor approaches. If you are unsure whether the contractions you are feeling are false or genuine, you should contact your midwife or obstetrician. They can help you assess the condition of your pregnancy and make sure everything is going smoothly.