to early to have Braxton Hicks?

United States
March 15, 2008 12:31pm CST
Hi, I am currently just 23 weeks pregnant or a little over five months. I have for the last week been having regular braxton hicks contractions. This is my fourth pregnancy and what concerns me is that I did not start getting these with my other pregnancies until I was in my eighth month. Now I know that these are only practice contractions but what is scaring me is that I know that it is a sign that the body is preparing to give birth. Is it really to early to be having these contractions?
1 person likes this
4 responses
@kezabelle (2974)
22 Mar 08
I had braxton hicks from 16 weeks with my second daughter they were painful and really strong, she was born at 38 weeks nice and healthy. I found mine happened when I relaxed and they can be a way of your body saying hey slow down a little but I found this hard despite being on drs orders to rest (not for the kicks though dont worry) with just one child let alone 3 other children.
• United States
5 May 08
I think I'm getting them now (27 weeks.) and mine are painful too. It starts whenever I'm resting too. Once I get done doing work (stna) I sit and then it hits and makes me stand up to hopefully make it not hit any harder. (never works really.)
18 Mar 08
The answer depends on whether they are genuine Braxton hicks or real contractions, A belt montior would be able to tell you which they were, see your midwife who will find out for you. The answer to your question, braxton hicks are common in pregnancy and can occur at any stage, I wouldnt worry too much, also the reason for them may be that your uterus has to work harder as you have had 3 other pregnancies before and it needs to work that little harder to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy. If you are worried tho see your midwife or gp. I wish you well in your pregnancy
@olivemai (4738)
• United States
16 Mar 08
I had that during most of my pregnancy but not for all my pregnancies, just the last one! I can mean that you need rest but it can be because you have experience now, having borne children already! It is good to rest severaltimes a day if possible and of course, call your health care provider to make sure it is normal and not causing any complications! Good luck and congratulations!
• United States
18 Mar 08
I had them early with my third, and he came when he was supposed to (full term). I think they are just telling you to settle down, that you're trying to do too much (and, how can you not with 3 other kids!). You could try drinking more water, that sometimes helps...Good luck!