braxton hicks - what is normal?

[Joseyjo]

hello!!
i am 35 weeks and over the last few days my bh have got stronger and more frequent. not regular by any stretch, so i am happy that i am not in labour but i just wondered whether it means anything and whether anyone else has experienced this.
the reason for my minor concern is that my consultant is very anti me having contractions as my uterus is not very strong (previous emergency cs) and if the increase in bh means that i am close to going into labour i would like to staple my dh to my side so i don't have to get in an ambulance and embarrass myself!!! . all advice welcome, thanks.

Braxton Hicks getting more frequent at this stage is normal. It is not really an indicator of labour. If they become painful (lower abdominal cramp/backache) rather than just being aware of the tightness then you should see midwife.

mears - thanks for that. should i be concerned about your use of "not really"?!!!

i was planning to give my midwife a ring tomorrow anyway as i haven't seen her for ages.

no, not at all. Braxton Hicks are normal but I think I was thinking that if you are concerned you should see your midwife. It is unusual not to have more frequent, stronger Braxton Hicks IYSWIM?

I had B-H contractions from about 26 weeks on w/DD. They got incredibly strong at about 35 weeks, but were pain free and irregular. When the REAL contractions began at 38 weeks + 2 days, I could definitely tell the difference! Believe me, you'll know right away!