Braxton Hicks at 20 weeks?

[SunCream32]

Hi, I am expecting baby no. 2 in Oct. I am currently on holiday in Spain and yesterday felt tightenings in my bump, where it went rock solid for a bit. This happened probably 3 or 4 times throughout the day and it was just a relaxing day, not doing anything strenuous! Could these be Braxton Hicks?? But is 20 weeks too early for these, and should I be concerned?? Last time I'm sure they started at about 30 weeks. I haven't noticed any today, but we've done a lot more walking. Please reassure me, as I'm starting to get worried! Thank you very much

I'm afraid it's entirely normal. I started having them and really painful ones at that, at 16 weeks this time round. The midwife laughed at me and said 'well any practice is good, consider it parole from an extra long labour'

BTW dehydration can cause them too so drink lots!

And bowel cramps. Avoid food poisoning or any situation which gives you bad wind - it irritates the uterus because the bowel presses against it.

lol at 'avoid food poisoning'

You may laugh but I was hospitalised last week with it - I didn't realise that if you vomit and get dehydrated you get massive braxton hicks and if you leave it long enough - real contractions. I got it on holiday as well.

Thank you so much for your quick and reassuring replies! Had read a few scary bits about possible early labour (too much reading on the 'net is not always good, eh??!) Yes, am guilty of not drinking enough liquids and have been VERY windy lately (sorry, TMI! and just had curry tonight - oops!) so have now got glass of juice in hand and put feet up! Thanks again x

Just got your last message, whomoved, are you ok now? that sounds awful. when are you due?

Juice is baaaaadddd when you have a dicky tummy - too acidic. Ideally milk/water.

Perhaps stick to bland foods for 24 hours if you are experiencing a lot of wind (I know it's deathly dull on holiday to have to eat toast but....). Honestly they will stop quite quickly if they are being caused by dehydration.

Thanks, that all makes sense to me!

If you are worried about pains keep a note of how often and when. If you get to the point where you can predict them see someone. If they start to completely restrict your day, see someone. BH aren't pleasant, but they shouldn't be regular and they shouldn't cause you to have to completely stop what you are doing.

Having said that you are walking, in a hot country and not drinking so you are going to encourage the BH. Keep up the fluids and get plenty of rest when you're not sightseeing.

thanks Timkerbellesmum, am taking it easy today and drinking lots of water. Haven't had any since Sunday so I'm a bit happier

I had them too with dd2 from 20wks, but I had a super easy, super normal homebirth, so maybe all that practice does work !

I hope that happens with me, lulalullabye . I guess I just need to quit worrying (easier said than done eh!)

I ended up ringing the labour ward as I was so uncomfortable. I have to say though that they did carry on all the way through. so get used to them quick.