Braxton Hicks or real labor? How do you know when those tightenings are actually the start of labor? In this video, we're talking about what early labor contractions can feel like, how they can differ from Braxton Hicks contractions, and why the pattern over time can tell you more than how painful a single contraction feels.

If you've had Braxton Hicks throughout your pregnancy, your first real contractions may feel surprisingly familiar. That's why paying attention to the timing, consistency and progression of your contractions can be more useful than focusing on the sensation alone.

In this video, we cover:

• What Braxton Hicks contractions are (practice contractions)
• Why Braxton Hicks are usually irregular
• What can settle Braxton Hicks
• What early labor contractions can feel like
• Period-like cramps and a dull ache low in your abdomen or pelvis
• Lower back pain that comes in waves and wraps around to the front
• Why there isn't one exact way a labor contraction has to feel
• Braxton Hicks vs real labor contractions: the pattern to look for
• Contractions becoming more regular, longer, stronger and closer together
• How to time your contractions with a contraction timer or simple notes
• Why early labor can take time
• Following the plan your maternity team has given you
• When to contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit
• Signs that need prompt medical attention

Remember, every labor is different. You may notice several of these signs, only a few,or feel them in a different order.

If you're wondering "How will I know when labor is starting?" or "Is this Braxton Hicks or real labor?", this video will help you understand some of the common changes to look out for as your body prepares for birth.

WATCH NEXT: Labor Doesn't Always Start With Contractions, where we talk about the signs your body may give you before those first real contractions begin.
Labor Doesn’t Always Start With Contractio...

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CHAPTERS
0:00 How do you know if labor is starting?
0:43 What are Braxton Hicks contractions?
1:21 What do early labor contractions feel like?
2:46 How to time your contractions
3:02 When Braxton Hicks feels like real labor..
3:56 When to contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit

Disclaimer: The information shared on Pregnancy Made Simple is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is unique. Always seek the advice of your doctor, midwife, or other qualified healthcare professional regarding any questions or concerns about your pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or your baby's health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information you have seen on this channel.

This video is for general educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you think you may be in labor, your waters have broken, you have heavy bleeding, reduced baby movements, severe or persistent pain, fever, green or brown fluid, or you're concerned about your symptoms, contact your maternity care provider or maternity unit.

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Braxton Hicks or Real Labor Contractions? ...