Braxton Hicks at almost 22 weeks

[Happytravellers]

I am not quite 22 weeks with twins in my first pregnancy, and have been on bed rest for past week, having lots of painlesss Braxton Hicks, or what my midwife calls "an irritable uterus". This morning I am getting even more, six or so an hour with increasing discomfort (and that after a good night's rest) and I am very worried. Rang midwife, who says no point going into hospital before 24 weeks as they can do nothing! She says to rest (I am), have a warm bath, and drink lots of water (I have been - 3 litres a day), but is that really all that can be done????... Worried I might lose these babies.

I don't really have any advice but couldn't not say hello after reading your post. I understand that Braxton hicks actually happen constantly through out pregnancy. I'm at the same stage as you and having quite a lot myself. I'm sure everything is goign to be fine. the things she is saying do sound like the right thing to do. Also you could call the NCT pregnancy helpline ( you don't have to be member) 03003300772 for some other profesional advice.

Hi, i am 25 weeks and get them all the time,some take my breath away , i have been getting them since about 10 weeks.

But they are not painfull at all, of course the hospital could do something surely? monitor you, if it is the start of something stop it? sorry i dont know the procedure just wanted to let you know i get them all the time some up to 20 a day.

I hope everything goes well for you and your babies

x

I've had them since 19 weeks. Have between 1 and 6 an hour. Sometimes they get really uncomfortable and literally take my breath away. At 23 weeks, the dr started measuring my cervix and checked for some sort of fetal protein that could indicate early labor and told me to drink loads of water. The tests certainly helped to calm my nerves. Maybe if you push you can get them to at least check your cervix length. I "took it easy" for a week and found the contraction lessened a little and my cervix went from long to longer. BTW, despite my contractions, everything seems absolutely fine- I'm hoping this is the same for you as well!

Thanks so much for your replies everyone. It's very reassuring to know I am not the only one wrestling with the confusion of so many Braxton Hicks (athough I don't wish it on anyone) and hear your stories. My cervix was checked a week ago and was long and shut then, but I will indeed push to have it rechecked next week, as you suggest aly323, and ask about that fetal protein test... Thanks again. xx