User:Mr. Ibrahem/Braxton Hicks contractions

Braxton Hicks contractions, also known as false labor, are sporadic uterine contractions during pregnancy. While they may begin in early pregnancy, they are not generally felt until after 20 weeks of gestation. They are a normal part of pregnancy and generally become more common near delivery.

While uncomfortable, the pain is typically only felt in the front of the abdomen. They may occur a few times per day and last for about 30 seconds. Unlike labor, they do not become stronger, more frequent, or last longer with time. They may also resolve with drinking fluids or rest.

The cause is unclear. They may be triggered by activity, a full bladder, or dehydration. Diagnosis may be supported by finding only part of the uterus contracting with no cervical dilation on vaginal exam. They are named after John Braxton Hicks, the English physician who first described them in Western medicine.