Braxton Hicks

mb928

FTM here- I think I just realized what I've been experiencing over the last week or so is Braxton Hicks and not just my baby moving around. I mean, I feel her move around a lot but there are certain times where it feels like my stomach is dropping like on a roller coaster, but it's below my belly button. I was just thinking she was rolling across my entire belly, but I just noticed last night and today that my uterus gets rock hard for like 10-20 seconds too. I don't feel any pain, so I don't think they're labor contractions.

These aren't concerning, right? I'm 25w +2. I want to observe them a little more before I contact my doctor to see how frequently I'm really feeling them now that I know what they are. I had one that I know of last night and one this morning. I'm just nervous with all the travel we have coming up for the holidays (both by air and road) and I'm trying to gauge whether I should make an emergency call to my doctor. My next appointment isn't for another 3 weeks.

cioccolata16

Very normal. And they’ll become more frequent, but the key is not regular! I was a bit worried the first time, but they’re nothing to worry about (and shouldn’t hurt, just feel kinda weird). You can always mention it at your next appointment, but unless there is some regularity and frequency (eg four in an hour), you probably don’t need an emergency call. 

mb928

@cioccolata16 thanks so much for the reassurance 😅 being a FTM is a crazy ride! 

alexxajams

Just make sure to drink a lot of water. My triage line told me it could also happen if I’m in one position for too long

hedgepig

@mb928 Totally normal. Mine feel like a tightening across my belly, but not painful at all. My doc says not a big deal unless they are regular - normally if you time them they will be all over the place, but if you time them and they are regular, then call your doc. Also, for me they are more frequent when I am walking/active, dehydrated, or after sex/orgasm. If you feel like you're having a lot, then lay down, drink a glass of water and see if they slow/stop.