However, not all contractions that you feel are a sign of labor will actually occur. It could be just a fake contraction.
Fake contractions or Braxton-Hicks contractions are a sign that your body is preparing or practicing to face labor. However, this contraction is not a sign that labor has arrived before the eyes.
Well, so you don't be fooled by both, let's know the difference between the original and the fake contractions. Here's the explanation:
When did it happen? Fake contractions usually begin in the third trimester of pregnancy. However, it can also occur early in the second trimester. Meanwhile, the original contraction occurs after your pregnancy is over 37 weeks. If you arrive early, that means you will give birth prematurely.
How does it feel? When fake contractions strike, you usually only feel tightening on the front of the abdomen or pelvis. Usually this contraction is not accompanied by excessive pain. Tightening due to false contractions is not prolonged. Some women say, fake contractions are similar to mild stomach cramps during menstruation, it feels just a little uncomfortable. In false contractions, the cervical wall does not thin and the cervix does not open as in contractions in the birthing process.
The original contraction occurs when your body secretes the hormone oxytocin which can stimulate the uterus to contract. The effect of the original contraction is arguably wavy. Initially the pain doesn't really make you suffer, but over time the pain can increase to make you miserable.
This type of contraction can make the top of your uterus tighten to help you push the baby into the birth canal. Contractions may start from the abdomen, then move to the back. Or maybe it also starts from the lower back and then moves to your stomach.
How long does the contraction feel? Fake contractions usually occur in less than 30 to 120 seconds. Contractions may stop when you walk or rest, or may stop when you change positions.
Meanwhile, the original contraction lasts about 30 to 70 seconds. This contraction can continue to occur even if you move or try to rest.
How often does it occur? Fake contractions do not have regular time intervals. This contraction can occur from time to time. While the original contractions have regular intervals, and the distance to the appearance of contractions is closer or more frequent.
Having a fake contraction during pregnancy is a natural thing and is not something that is worrying. You also don't need to do special medical care if you experience these conditions. However, if this contraction makes you uncomfortable, you can increase your rest, take a warm bath, massage, or move like a walk.
Although it's not a sign of labor before the eyes, sometimes, it's hard to tell which fake contractions with genuine contractions are a sign that you are giving birth prematurely. Therefore, it is advisable to immediately consult a doctor when you experience false contractions before the age of 37 weeks of gestation.
If you experience contractions that are about 5 minutes apart, maybe it's time you rushed to the maternity home