Braxton Hicks contractions

(noun)

Known as false labor or practice contractions. They are sporadic uterine contractions that sometimes start around six weeks but are not usually felt until the second or third trimester of pregnancy.

Related Terms

Examples of Braxton Hicks contractions in the following topics:

  • Onset of Labor

    • The term false labor is sometimes used to describe a cluster of Braxton Hicks contractions that are mistaken for real labor.
    • In contrast, Braxton Hicks contractions should be infrequent, irregular, and involve only mild cramping.
    • When the contractions of labor begin, the walls of the uterus start to contract through stimulation by the release of the pituitary hormone oxytocin.
    • The contractions cause the cervix to widen and begin to open.
    • As contractions become closer and stronger the cervix will gradually start to dilate.