what do braxton hicks feel like?

[HarrysMummy17]

I'm just wondering what braxton hicks feel like.

My first baby was born very quickly, only 30 minutes after I felt any pain and I can't really remember the pain any more!

I gave birth at 32 weeks last time and as I've just reached 32 weeks again I'm getting nervous so I'd like to know the signs as I didn't have any warning last time!

[intotheblue9]

Braxton Hicks is where the top of your bump gets hard and sticks out. They don't mean labour will happen unless they start to feel stronger - turning into contractions I think? Wd you be comfortable asking your midwife for a reassurance VE?

[maamalady]

Braxton Hicks feel like your bump is being shrink-wrapped. Not painful for me, but can be quite uncomfortable. Nothing to do with onset of labour though, they can happen for weeks and weeks before birth.

[HarrysMummy17]

Thanks ladies. I know they don't mean the onset of labour. I'm just trying to work out which pains mean what. I'm sure it's just braxton Hicks I'm feeling. My legs and back were quite sore yesterday but I think that was after walking a lot.

I've got an appointment with the consultant on Thursday to see if there are any signs of this one coming early too.

[MaGratgarlik1983]

Braxton hicks felt like my bump was tightening and I got them for a few weeks before delivery at just over 40 weeks. I remember early contractions feeling like them but more regular and getting gradually more painful.

[katienana]

My bump.goes hard, I feel.hot and get an unpleasant sensation up my back and heart races. Real contractions are more of an acute pain.