Braxton Hicks Contractions

The schedule for my next pre-natal checkup was originally scheduled on November 2nd. But last weekend, after our 2-day trip to Pampanga, a frequent tightening of my uterus (which is painful sometimes) commenced. My baby also seem to move a whole lot more than the previous weeks and months. Aside from that, I can feel the kicks in my pubic area, which somehow made me think that my baby wants to get out as soon as possible.

Asking fellow Moms in our neighborhood only worsened my anxiety. One of them said she experienced the same thing when she was 7 months pregnant and was ordered a complete bed rest by her doctor because her placenta was then lying too low and the baby could burst out all of a sudden. Another one told me that her neighbor gave birth at 7 months because of the same symptoms I now encounter. When I came home that day I cried my heart out, in 2 hours! I do not want to give birth prematurely, well who does? Hubby was there to console me but I just couldn't stop crying. In the end he called my doctor and she advised me to go to the clinic ASAP so she can check.

The next day, I was still afraid and very nervous. My doctor did all the routine checks plus an internal examination to see if my cervix has dilated. But the Lord is so good, he would not let anything happen to me and my baby. She said I have absolutely nothing to worry about. The frequent kicks and jabs only means that my baby is very active and healthy. While the hardening of the uterus is called Braxton Hicks contractions and it is very common during the third trimester. Not all women experience Braxton Hicks, though. So how do we differentiate real labour contractions from Braxton Hicks contractions? 

How to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks from Labour contractions
Braxton Hicks Contractions	Labour Contractions
Can be once, twice or thrice in an hour, a few times a day	More frequent
Usually irregular; if regular, only in very short periods	More regular
Usually lasts to only a minute or less	Lasts noticeably longer
Low intensity and often stops if you change activity (walk if you’ve been sitting, and vice versa)	More painful

I am very glad and thankful that what I'm experiencing is just normal. Though I still complain of lower back pains and occasional cramps in my hip area. It really pays to have someone knowledgeable or an expert to talk to. At least now I have peace of mind, knowing that my baby is growing healthy inside me. If ever you are in doubt and have questions, talk to your doctor.

Also take note of any watery or bloody vaginal discharge, or if you think your waters have broken. These should definitely ring an alarm, so call your doctor immediately.