Braxton Hicks Contractions

Many women experience Braxton Hicks contractions as early as the second trimester. Sometimes they are very mild and feel like a slight tightness in your abdomen. Other times, they can be painful.

Braxton Hicks contractions help your body gear up for birth, but do not open the cervix. They typically occur in the afternoon or evening, after physical activity or after sexual intercourse, and are more likely to occur when you are tired or dehydrated, so be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Braxton Hicks contractions occur more often and become stronger as your due date draws nearer.