Most women will experience false labor pains before the actual labor sets in, and these are known as Braxton Hicks. They are the body’s way to get ready for childbirth, but what if you experience them during 26 weeks of pregnancy?
Can Braxton Hicks Contraction Happen at 26 Weeks?
Yes, Braxton Hicks contractions can occur at the second trimester during the pregnancy. They have been described as cramps similar to those experienced during menstruation. These cramps may be uncomfortable, but will not cause bad effects.
Braxton Hicks contractions usually:
- Are not painful
- Do not follow regular rhythm or intervals
- Do not progressively start to come closer together
- Can be relieved by just changing your position
- Do not last for a long period
- Do not have increased intensity
When Should You Call a Doctor?
You need to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible if your contractions are increasing in severity, intensity, and frequency, or if you have:
- Pain in the abdomen and/or severe cramping
- Contractions that occur regularly, which is unlike to be Braxton Hicks at 26 weeks
- Vaginal bleeding/unusual vaginal discharge
- A feeling like the baby is moving downwards or being pushed down into the pelvic region
- Pain in the lower back
Other Mothers’ Experience
"I was suffering from frequent Braxton Hicks cramps during my pregnancy, even up to 20 times a day. They were pretty scattered and had no particular rhythm. There was never too much pain or discomfort associated with them. My doctor told me not to worry and take plenty of water to stay hydrated."
"I started having Braxton Hicks at 26 weeks and told my doctor about them immediately. Unfortunately, these contractions started to increase up to 12 times in half an hour and I had to get some shots to make the contractions stop. My doctor said that a few contractions per hour could be considered normal but not 12. I recommend everyone get a check-up."
"I am 28 weeks into my pregnancy now and have been having these contractions for the last three weeks. My doctor said that they were normal and that I did not have anything to worry about at the moment. I was asked to get in touch with him if the contractions started to get painful or more severe."
"I started having these contractions two weeks back, around my 26 weeks of pregnancy, and I immediately went to see my doctor for an opinion. A few tests were conducted and my doctor even measured my cervix to make sure it had not started to open up. Even though my doctor told me not to worry, she said that I should get in touch with her if there was any bleeding or the contractions started to become closer and closer together. Strict instructions have been given for me, such as avoiding sexual intercourse for some time and staying hydrated."
How to Cope with Braxton Hicks
You don't have to do anything in case you are having Braxton Hicks at 26 weeks, but in case they are causing discomfort, you can try the following tips.
1. Take a Walk
Take a walk to help you deal with the contractions. If you find that the contractions appear after walking, then sit down and take a break.
2. Relax
Try to do some breathing exercises that will help you fight stress and relax. Of course, doing this is not going to make the Braxton Hicks contractions go away, but you will be able to cope with the discomfort in a much better manner. You can also take a warm bath or listen to some relaxing music to help you take your mind off from stress. We also recommend getting a nice massage.
3. Other Tips
Braxton Hicks at 26 weeks can be quite scary for women who have no idea of what they are experiencing. Now you must know that they are nothing to worry about, and here are more tips to help you cope with the discomfort:
- Change your positions. If changing your position doesn't work, and the contractions tend to become persist, you should contact your doctor.
- Make sure that you are getting adequate water, as dehydration may also lead to these contractions.