What To Do When You Feel Braxton Hicks Contractions

 

Source: slickwellness.com

 Do you know the benefits of having Braxton Hicks contractions? Many of the pregnant women I came across for years only thought of it as an unpleasant part of carrying a baby. Even I had the same idea about it the first few times I got it. When you assume it’s time to pop out your child, the tightening sensation goes away, leaving you with disappointment. But what I understand now about false labor is that it’s your body’s way of giving you a taste of what’s to come during the actual birthing day.

 

Though it kicks in at the most unexpected times, you should honestly be thankful that you experienced the Braxton Hicks pre-delivery. This way, you won’t go into shock once you feel the real contractions. With that in mind, however, you can still try your hardest to deal with the false labor efficiently.

 

Remain Well-Rested

The ultimate thing you need to do stat is to put away all your tasks so that you will be able to concentrate on resting. Your body works too much already by supporting the child in your tummy; it will surely be a pain to obsess about the business, dirty laundry, and meal preparation too. It can take a lot out of your plate if you go on maternity leave at least two months before the due date. You can also ask someone to do the household chores temporarily on your behalf, and have your husband take care of and bring your bigger kids to school.  

 

Hydrate Yourself

You tend to lose more water within your system in comparison with a non-pregnant individual since you pee a lot. Most of the fluids go towards your child’s growth as well; that’s why lacking hydration can cause Braxton Hicks contractions, or worse, congenital disabilities. A sad example of hydrating your cells is drinking soda and coffee. Though they’re delicious, the said beverages drain water out of your body too. Instead, you can benefit from fruits, fresh juices, decaffeinated herbal teas, and regular H2O.  

 

Have A Luxurious Bath

Assuming you’re too far along to move so much, a warm – not hot – bath for less than half an hour may help alleviate the sensations of false labor. Stress can bring out Braxton Hicks, you know. However, you are most likely to forget what tenses you up mentally and physically when you soak your tired self in the relaxing water. Other than the bubbling solution, feel free to add Epsom salts in the tub. You may also add essential oils, as well as light some scented candles to make the bath extra luxurious.  

 

According to Michael J. Breus, PhD, “The warm water helps relax muscles and reduces pressure on the knees and joints, which allows the body to be fully supported. It increases circulation and reduces swelling and inflammation.”

 

Source: hips.hearstapps.com

 

Meditate

Meditation does not only calm your spirit; it allows you to learn some breathing exercises too. According to Kristen Scarlett, LMHC, “While meditation and mindfulness may not combat severe symptoms, learning to tune into your thoughts and feelings may help you cope.”

 

“The type of controlled, relaxed breathing skills developed with regular meditation practice produces both immediate and long-term benefits,” wrote Thomas Rutledge, PhD. “Blood pressure and muscle tension also rapidly decline; thinking processes slow, enabling increased focus and concentration.” It matters to get the technique down so that you won’t freak out when you experience the fake contractions. While you sometimes want to hold your breath whenever the muscles tighten, enable yourself to go to zen mode to deal with Braxton Hicks well.  

 

Empty Your Bladder

Urinating when your brain tells you to do so is very important. The heaviness of the uterus means it may always be in contact with the bladder. If the latter is full, it can add pressure on the former and maybe slightly push against it. That action can trigger false labor; that’s why you have to pee as often as possible.