Braxton-Hicks contraction; painless false uterine contraction; prodromal labor

Physiology

• tightening of the uterine muscles for 1-2 minutes
• may occur in preparation for birth

Clinical manifestations

• sporadic uterine contractions that sometimes start at 6 weeks of gestation
• generally not felt until 2nd trimester or 3rd trimester
• painless or mild cramping
• often infrequent & irregular

Management

• adequate hydration
  • dehydration may exacerbate
• maneuvers to alleviate discomfort
  • rhythmic breathing
  • lying on left side
  • slight change in movement
  • urination (emptying bladder)
    • a full bladder can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions

More general terms

• uterine contraction