Week 29 – Braxton Hicks contraction vs. Real Contractions: How to Tell the Difference

Is This a Practice Run… or Go Time?! Let’s Figure It Out Together

Hey love—you’re at week 29 pregnant, which means you’re officially deep into the third trimester countdown. 🍼✨

At this point, there’s a new sensation creeping in:
tightening in your belly, maybe a little crampy, maybe not painful… but definitely strange.

You might be lying down, walking around, or just watching TV when suddenly your bump hardens like a bowling ball, then slowly softens again. And you’re thinking:
“Okay… was that a contraction?”

Most likely?
You just met your first Braxton Hicks contraction—aka your body’s way of practicing for the big day. But how do you know when it’s just a warm-up… and when it’s actually game time?

Let’s break it down together, mama. This post will walk you through: ✅ What Braxton Hicks feel like
✅ What real labor contractions feel like
✅ Key differences between the two
✅ When to chill out and hydrate… and when to call your provider
✅ Plus a few tips for staying calm and comfortable 💛

1️⃣ What Are Braxton Hicks Contractions, Exactly?

Think of Braxton Hicks as your uterus doing some light rehearsal work.

These “practice” contractions help tone your uterus and get it ready for labor. They can start as early as the second trimester, but they’re especially common in the third.

They usually feel like:

• A painless (or mildly uncomfortable) tightening or squeezing of your belly
• A sense that your bump is suddenly rock hard
• Lasting about 15–30 seconds (sometimes up to a minute)
• Happening irregularly—maybe a few times a day or more after activity

They’re not harmful, and they don’t mean you’re going into labor early. But they can catch you off guard!

2️⃣ What Triggers Braxton Hicks?

They often show up when:

• You’re dehydrated
• You’ve been on your feet a lot
• You’ve just exercised or walked
• You’re having sex
• Baby is active and moving a lot
• You need to pee but haven’t gone yet 😅

📌 Hydration and rest can often stop them in their tracks.

3️⃣ So… What Do Real Labor Contractions Feel Like Then?

Ah, the big question:
How do real contractions feel different from Braxton Hicks?

Here’s how true labor contractions usually go:

✅ They’re regular and get closer together over time

(Think every 10 minutes… then every 7… then every 5)

✅ They last longer and feel stronger with each one

They start mild and gradually build in intensity and length

✅ They don’t stop with rest, hydration, or changing position

✅ You’ll feel cramping in your lower back, pelvis, or both, often wrapping around like a wave

✅ You may notice other labor signs, like:

• Bloody show or mucus plug discharge
• Water breaking
• Nausea, diarrhea, or a sudden burst of energy

📌 If you’re not sure, time the contractions—and trust your gut. If they’re increasing in frequency and strength, it could be early labor.

4️⃣ Quick Comparison Chart

5️⃣ When Should You Call Your Doctor or Midwife?

You should always trust your instincts, but here are some specific times to reach out:

📞 Call if you have:

• Four or more contractions in one hour before 37 weeks
• Painful contractions that don’t ease with rest
• Contractions accompanied by bleeding, fluid leakage, or pressure
• Sudden change in baby’s movement patterns
• Or anything that just feels off—you know your body best

6️⃣ What Can Help Ease Braxton Hicks Discomfort?

While they’re not usually painful, they can be annoying or distracting. Here’s what might help:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Dehydration is a big trigger. Aim for 8–10 glasses of water per day.

🛌 Rest

Lie down on your left side and relax. Overexertion can bring them on.

🚶‍♀️ Or Change Positions

Ironically, sometimes moving around helps—especially if you’ve been sitting too long.

🛀 Take a Warm Bath or Shower

The heat helps your muscles relax, which can ease the tightening.

🌬️ Breathe Through It

Try slow, deep belly breathing—even though it’s “practice,” it’s still good labor prep!

7️⃣ What Other Mamas Say About Braxton Hicks

“At first I thought, ‘Oh no, is this labor?!’ But once I laid down and drank some water, they stopped. It’s weird, but kind of fascinating how your body practices.” – Nina

“Mine felt like a tight squeeze with no pain, just pressure. I always got them after a long day or if I didn’t drink enough water.” – Karla

“I didn’t have them much with my first, but the second time around, they started earlier and happened often. Still harmless, just annoying!” – Amanda

8️⃣ When Braxton Hicks Feel Empowering (Yes, Really!)

Here’s the thing, mama:
Braxton Hicks contractions are a reminder that your body is doing what it was built to do.

Your uterus is strengthening.
Your body is preparing.
And you’re getting closer to meeting your baby.

Even though they’re not the “real deal,” they’re part of the process—and they’re a signal that the finish line is getting closer.

So next time you feel that tightening wave, you can smile a little and say,
“Thanks, body. I see you getting ready.”

Final Thoughts: You’re Getting Closer—and You’re Ready

Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, this stage always brings new sensations, new questions, and a lot of “what was that?!” moments. But you’re doing beautifully.

Now that you know what to look for, you’ll be able to tell the difference between Braxton Hicks and true labor contractions—and when the real thing comes, you’ll feel more confident and in control.

You’ve got this, mama.
And when the time comes? You’ll know. 💛

you might want to read …

• Week 28 – Welcome to the Third Trimester! What to Expect
• Week 27 – Third and Final Trimester is Coming! How to Prepare