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It is quite normal for you to ask these questions. Not all contractions mean you are in real labour. Some of them are basically how your body prepares itself for delivery. Let's learn about some of the contractions that can be felt during the third trimester, how to distinguish between them, and when to seek medical help.
What Are Contractions?
When the muscles in your uterus contract and relax, you experience contractions. They can cause a feeling of abdominal tightness, menstrual cramps, or back pain. You can start to experience them more often in the latter stages, mainly in the third trimester of pregnancy. These contractions help your body prepare for labour, but not all of them mean your baby is arriving soon.Types of Third-Trimester Contractions
There are mainly two types of contractions you might experience during the third trimester:Braxton Hicks Contractions
You may feel them as a tightening in your belly that comes and goes. They are usually:
- Irregular in timing
- Not painful or only mildly uncomfortable
- Short duration
- Not increasing in strength
- Frequently disappear with rest, fluids, or a positional shift.
Braxton Hicks's contractions do not lead to labour. However, they are a normal part of pregnancy and often become more noticeable as you approach your due date.
True Labour Contractions
Signs of true labour contractions include:
- Occur at regular intervals
- Get stronger over time
- Last longer (30 to 70 seconds)
- Do not leave without rest or hydration
- It may be accompanied by back pain or pressure
- This may lead to the loss of the mucus plug or your water-breaking
What Do Third Trimester Contractions Feel Like?
Every woman experiences contractions differently. Some may experience mild cramping, while others may feel a significant sense of pressure or tightening. The areas of sensation include the lower abdomen, pelvis, or even the back.Braxton Hicks contractions may feel like a light tightening or a firming of your belly without any pain, whereas true labour contractions initially feel like period cramps that progress to be much stronger and closer together in duration.
A helpful thing to do is note the timing of your contractions. Remember how long each lasts and how much time passes between them. If these contractions become regularly spaced and painful, then the woman may very well be entering labour.
When Should You Worry?
Although many third-trimester contractions are harmless, some signs may indicate a problem or early labour. If you have these symptoms, you should contact your doctor or go to the hospital:- Regular contractions before 37 weeks
- Severe pain that does not go away
- Bleeding or watery discharge
- Decreased movement of the baby
- A feeling of pressure in your pelvis
- A sudden increase in vaginal discharge
What Can You Do When You Feel Contractions?
If you start to feel contractions and are not sure whether they are Braxton Hicks or true labour, try the following:- Change your position: If you are sitting, try standing or walking, and vice versa.
- Drink water: Dehydration can sometimes cause false contractions.
- Take a warm shower or bath: Soothe and calm your muscles with a warm bath or shower.
- Rest: You may experience fewer contractions if you sleep on your left side.
- Time them: Note how frequently they happen and how long they persist.
Can Contractions Start and Stop?
Yes, and in particular, Braxton-Hicks contractions. You could be feeling one or two contractions in an hour and then no more for the rest of the day. It can similarly happen in early labour, where contractions come and go over a few days before becoming regular.It is quite an irritation, especially if you are just about due, but all these things are happening as your body gets ready for birth.
What If You Are Not Sure?
Consulting a healthcare professional is usually beneficial if you are unsure of which contractions you are experiencing. No question is too small in the context of pregnancy. Doctors and nurses deal with these types of questions daily and will guide you according to your symptoms.You should never apologise or hesitate to make the call. Even if it is a false alarm, the check-in will give you peace of mind.
Most of the time, contractions at 36 weeks are completely normal and simply your body's way of showing signs that it is getting ready for labour. However, if you have any concerns or notice anything unusual, please do not hesitate to contact your doctor to ensure everything is okay.
Being able to understand your body's signs can help you feel more in control and less anxious as you approach the time of meeting your baby.
FAQs on Third Trimester Contractions: Normal or Not?
- Is it normal to have contractions every day in the third trimester?
It is common to experience Braxton Hicks contractions every day, especially as you approach your due date. They are usually not painful and can be relieved with rest or drinking water. If they turn into powerful and regular, consult your doctor. - Can dehydration cause contractions?
Yes, dehydration does contribute to Braxton Hicks contractions. If you ensure that you are drinking enough water throughout the day, this can reduce the number of false contractions you experience.
