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Ask A Childbirth Educator
Questions and Answer

Q. Could you please tell us how she can tell the difference between real labor and Braxton/Hicks pain?

A. Braxton Hicks contractions tend to be irregular, of varying intensity, can last longer than a minute (they can be two-three minutes long), and also tend to slow down with movement or a hot bath. There usually is no bloody show present, though there may be some brown-stained mucus. They are felt in the abdomen.

True labor contractions progressively get closer together, last longer and increase in intensity. Walking tends to make them harder and/or closer, and taking a hot bath will not make them subside. The presence of pinkish red show shows that the cervix is changing. The contractions are felt in the lower back and in early labor may be mistaken for an intestinal upset.

Karen Klimsak-Ungar, CCE has been a certified childbirth educator for Birth Works® since 1996. She is currently Managing Editor for the Birth Works newsletter, sits on the Birth Works Board of Directors, and serves on their National Trainee Review Committee. A happily married mother of two, she also continues to teach Birth Works classes as well as private classes.

Karen will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.