Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Braxton Hicks contractions
Have been getting lots of Braxton Hicks contractions since 2 weeks ago. The worst was last week when I experienced 5 contractions in an hour. Managed to check with my OB and he said that it is normal and as long as it is infrequent, irregular and painless, then I shouldn't be worry. Well, Braxton Hicks are sporadic uterine contractions (tightening of the muscles in the uterus) that actually start at about 6 weeks but most people won't be able to feel it. It will get more frequent and intense when nearer to delivery day. They are commonly called "practice contractions" as they help uterus prepare for the contractions it will experience during labor. Without Braxton Hicks contractions, labor contractions would be longer, more painful, and less effective at pushing the baby out. Braxton Hicks contractions felt later in pregnancy also help to soften the cervix. To me, Braxton Hicks contractions occur when my belly is "balling up" and harden. I will be able to feel it instantly whenever my babies are extremely active. Whenever I feel that, I will try to rest on my side, drink lots of water and practice breathing techniques. I realized that slow, deep, and rhythmic breathing can help alleviate discomfort. Since WT attended the prepared childbirth class with me, he is really making use of what he had learned in the class, constantly reminding me to practice my breathing and giving me massages. At least my 30 bucks for the first part of the class wasn't a waste.
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