Braxton Hicks so Early?

[meegwho]

Hi Doctor-
I'm 20 weeks pg and have been having what I recently realized are Braxton Hicks contractions for about a month (because they aren't in my book until the 8th month chapter, I had no idea). This is my first pregnancy. This week I had the anatomy scan and everything was perfect--my baby (boy!) was very active and everything measured wonderfully. The did an internal u/s as well and said my cervix was long and closed, even when she had me cough, etc. My concern is that one Dr. said no big deal about the contractions, and one seemed concerned, suggesting I might have a BV infection that was causing them, and giving me a rx for a suppository. Should I take this? I don't like taking medications while pg unless it's necessary so I'm looking for your opinion. I was told that "one or two contractions a day" is fine but "4 an hour is not." Of course, there is a large area in between, which is where I fall! Last night, I had 4 in about 75 minutes. They only happen (or I only notice them) when lying flat on my back. Everyone I mention this to says they didn't feel them until much later. I look forward to your take on this.
Thanks much!

[sjsunshine29]

I am 28 weeks pg and have also been having BH for the last 3 mths, this is my 3rd (I get a boy too, finally).  I was also told it's normal unless you have 4 or more in an hour.  I have a total of 9 or 10 a day.  I went into l&d last week for 4/hr, they said to try and drink lots of water because I may have been dehydrated, and it helped.  So try that if you start getting them again.  A big glass of cold water and lay down and relax for a bit!  Congrats and hope all is well.

[meegwho]

Thanks so much! and you're right, i'm thin. 5'11" and usually 130ish, though now i'm closer to 142 pounds...i was also told in the u/s that the baby is really active (and i hadn't eaten since the night before so she was surprised). i often find the BHs come when i'm lying still, which is also when i feel him (no name yet!) kicking the most. thanks again--you've put my mind at ease.

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
It can be totally normal to have BH contractions this early.  We often see them on the anatomy scan.  Congratulations by the way--have you named him?
I am going to guess from what you say that you are a thin person.

I would suggest that you take the suppository (is it cleocin?) as BV has been related to preterm labor, but only if you think you do have BV.  If you have no symptoms (discharge, odor, etc) I would not take it.

A few tips:
Don't lie flat on your back--you will find that in your book soon!
Drink lots of water.
Sit down and rest when you do get the contractions.
A full bladder can make you contract more
An active baby can trigger contractions

If they are mild and irregular, no problem.
Painful/Regular/more than 6 in an hour/Bleeding are the things to worry about

Good luck!
Dr B