What it means
Tightenings of the uterus that can start in the second trimester and become more frequent near term. They are usually irregular, do not get stronger or closer together, are felt mostly in the front of the belly, and often ease with walking, rest or drinking water. They are sometimes called false labor. True laborLAY-berThe process of childbirth, from the start of regular contractions that open the cervix to the delivery of the baby and placenta.par/o, part/o giving birth, laborFull entry contractions become regular, stronger and closer together, and open the cervix. They are named after John Braxton Hicks, the English doctor who described them in 1872.
For the nurse
Teach the client how to time contractions and when to call: regular contractions before 37 weeks, fluid leaking, bleeding, or less fetal movement.
At a glance
| Also written | Braxton-Hicks, Braxton-Hicks contractions, Braxton Hicks contraction, Braxton Hicks |
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Related terms
labor
The process of childbirth, from the start of regular contractions that open the cervix to the delivery of the baby and placenta.
preterm labor
Labor that begins after 20 weeks and before 37 weeks of pregnancy.