Braxton Hicks vs Labor Contractions: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Ask for Support
by Hannah Fenner, a Fertility Awareness Educator and founder of The Body Bluprint
Updated July 2, 2025.
As you inch closer to your estimated due date, you might start to wonder…
- Will labor just begin out of nowhere?
- Will I get a heads-up—like Braxton Hicks contractions?
- Does everyone get them?
This time can feel incredibly uncertain (and a little surreal), but you’re not alone in wondering what’s normal and what isn’t.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about Braxton Hicks contractions so you can feel calm, confident, and connected to your body as you prepare for birth!
What Are Braxton Hicks?
Braxton Hicks contractions have the nickname “practice contractions” —and that’s exactly what they are.
Think of Braxton Hicks contractions as your uterus doing warm-up stretches, practicing for the main event.
They’re named after Dr. John Braxton Hicks, a 19th-century doctor who was the first to describe them. And while the name sounds like a strange Downton Abbey character, Braxton Hicks contractions are a completely normal part of pregnancy.
Here’s what to expect with Braxton Hicks:
- They can start as early as 20 weeks (though they’re more common later in pregnancy).
- They usually feel like a painless tightening or hardening of the belly that comes and goes in waves.
- They don’t kickstart labor, they’re just your body’s way of preparing, a little behind-the-scenes action.
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Does Everyone Experience Braxton Hicks Contractions?
Not necessarily—and that’s completely normal! While Braxton Hicks are very common, not every woman feels them. Sometimes the practice contractions are so sneaky, they’re easy to miss.
Some women notice them regularly, while others might not feel them at all, or mistake them for baby movements, growing pains, or general belly tightness.
Whether or not you feel them can depend on a few factors, such as:
- Your body’s own sensitivity
- Whether it’s your first pregnancy or not
- How active you are during the day
Let’s break it down a little more:
First pregnancy: You might not recognize Braxton Hicks contractions right away—or even at all. With so many new sensations happening in your body, it’s easy to brush off those gentle squeezes as the baby wiggles or stretching muscles.
Had a baby before: If this isn’t your first rodeo, you can probably pick up on them earlier than a first-time mom. Your body knows the drill, and you’re more tuned in to what a "practice contraction" feels like.
Busy day: Been on your feet a lot? Feeling a bit stressed or dehydrated? A busy day can sometimes bring on Braxton Hicks contractions. It’s like your uterus is gently tapping you on the shoulder and saying, “Maybe it’s time to put your feet up for a minute?”
Whether you feel them often, only occasionally, or not at all—don’t worry! Your body is still quietly getting ready for labor in its own perfect way.
Braxton Hicks vs Labor Contractions: How Can You Tell the Difference?
By the time you reach the end of a pregnancy, every little twinge can give you that “Is this it?” feeling. And honestly—that’s completely normal!
To help clear things up, here’s a simple guide to tell the difference between a warm-up and the real thing:
| Braxton Hicks | Labor Contractions |
|---|---|
| Irregular in timing | Come at regular intervals |
| Don't increase in length | Grow stronger over time |
| Often go away with rest, water, or a position change | Keep going, no matter what you do |
| Usually painless, just tight or uncomfortable | More crampy, painful or intense |
| Felt mostly in the front | Often start in the back and move forward |
| Don't change the cervix | Cause dilation and effacement |
Quick tip: If a warm shower, a drink of water, or lying down makes it stop—it’s probably Braxton Hicks.
When to Call Your Care Provider
Most of the time, Braxton Hicks contractions are just your body’s way of practicing—but if something feels off, it’s always okay (and encouraged) to check in with your midwife, doctor, or maternity team.
Reach out if you experience:
- Regular, painful tightening that doesn’t ease up
- A gush or constant trickle of fluid (your water may be breaking)
- Vaginal bleeding
- Reduced baby movements
- Tightening before 37 weeks
- Or if you simply have a strong sense that something isn't quite right. Maternal instinct is a powerful thing!
Even if it turns out to be a false alarm—that’s completely fine. That’s what your care team is there for. You’re never a nuisance, and you should never have to sit at home second-guessing yourself.
Reminder: You know your body best. Always trust your instincts
Braxton Hicks contractions can catch you off guard, but they’re a natural sign that your body is quietly doing exactly what it’s meant to do.
Whether you feel them all the time, only now and then, or not much at all, take comfort in knowing that your uterus is doing its thing. Your body knows how to prepare for labor, even if you don’t always feel it happening.
Take a breath, stay connected to yourself, and know you’re doing an incredible job, no matter what this stage looks like for you!
