Contractions

Contractions are a feeling that the uterus is tightening and relaxing. During the last few months of pregnancy, you might notice mild contractions from time to time. These are called Braxton Hicks contractions. They don't signal the start of labor.

Use the following questions to help tell the difference between Braxton Hicks contractions and labor contractions:

• Are the contractions regular? Time your contractions from the beginning of one to the beginning of the next. Look for a pattern of contractions that gets closer together over time. Labor contractions generally are 2 to 5 minutes apart. Braxton Hicks contractions may come and go without a pattern.
• How long do they last? Time how long each contraction lasts. Labor contractions last about 60 to 90 seconds.
• Do the contractions stop? Labor contractions keep going no matter what you're doing. They also keep going if you stand up, sit down or lie down. Braxton Hicks contractions might stop when you walk, rest or change position.
• Are the contractions getting stronger? Labor contractions get stronger over time, and it becomes hard to talk when you're having them. Braxton Hicks contractions typically are weak. Or they may be intense right away and then weaken.