From the Guidelines
Braxton Hicks contractions are not a reliable indicator of early labor, as they are irregular, uncomfortable but not painful, and subside with rest. These practice contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, and are characterized by irregular tightening of the uterus that usually doesn't increase in intensity or frequency 1. To distinguish Braxton Hicks from early labor, it's essential to note that true labor contractions become progressively stronger, more frequent, and don't subside with rest or position changes. Some key characteristics of Braxton Hicks contractions include:
- Irregular timing
- Uncomfortable but not painful
- Subside with rest
- Do not increase in intensity or frequency In contrast, true labor contractions are:
- Regular and painful
- Become progressively stronger and more frequent
- Do not subside with rest or position changes If you experience contractions before 37 weeks that are regular and painful, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately, as this could indicate preterm labor 1. Similarly, if you're past 37 weeks and notice contractions becoming regular, increasingly painful, and accompanied by other signs like bloody show, ruptured membranes, or lower back pain, this likely indicates true labor beginning. It's also important to note that prenatal exercise is not recommended for women who are in active preterm labor, and women who experience regular and painful uterine contractions should cease exercise and seek advice from a healthcare provider 1.
From the Research
Association between Braxton Hicks Contractions and Early Labor
- Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as false labor, have been studied in relation to their impact on fetal wellbeing and their distinction from preterm labor contractions 2.
- Research has shown that women who experience Braxton Hicks contractions have higher fetal heart rates, lower long-term variability, and reduced number of accelerations compared to those who do not perceive these contractions 2.
- The presence of Braxton Hicks contractions may be associated with changes in uterine activity and fetal wellbeing, but their direct relationship to early labor is not clearly established in the provided studies.
- Studies have focused on the effectiveness of tocolytic agents such as nifedipine and indomethacin in preventing preterm labor and delaying delivery 3, 4, 5, 6.
- While these studies provide insight into the management of preterm labor, they do not directly address the association between Braxton Hicks contractions and the onset of early labor.
Tocolytic Therapy in Preterm Labor
- Nifedipine and indomethacin have been compared as monotherapy and combination therapy for inhibiting preterm uterine contractions 3.
- Combination therapy with nifedipine and indomethacin has been shown to be more effective than monotherapy in delaying delivery and prolonging pregnancy 3.
- Nifedipine has been found to be effective in inhibiting threatened preterm contractions and postponing preterm birth 4, 6.
- The effectiveness of tocolytic therapy in preventing preterm labor and improving neonatal outcomes is a significant area of research, but its direct connection to Braxton Hicks contractions and early labor is not explicitly explored in the provided evidence.