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30th May 2025
10:41am BST

During pregnancy, it's common to experience uterine contractions.
Understanding the differences can help in determining when labour has truly begun.
So, we’ve done the research for you (and for me) about what to expect and when to head to the hospital.
Often referred to as "practice contractions," Braxton Hicks contractions are the body's way of preparing for labour, according to the HSE.
They are typically characterised by:
These contractions can happen several times a day and may go away with movement or rest. They are more common in the later stages of pregnancy but can happen at any time.
Labour contractions signal the onset of childbirth and have distinct characteristics:
These contractions are a sign that the body is working to move the baby down and open the cervix in preparation for birth.
The primary differences between Braxton Hicks and labour contractions include:
It's important to contact your midwife, maternity unit, or hospital if:
Also, it’s so important to trust your instincts - if something doesn't feel right, get checked.
Understanding these differences can help you determine when labour has begun and when to ring the hospital for advice.
Always consult with your healthcare provider if you're uncertain about any symptoms during pregnancy.
For more information on Braxton Hicks and labour contractions, here’s the link to the HSE’s information page.