braxton hicks; please help

[nena0802]

how do you know when your having them? what do they feel like? im 27+2 and a first time mom.
please help !

[mamaMcAnulty]

Braxton Hicks are described as:

Irregular in intensityInfrequentUnpredictableNon-rhythmicMore uncomfortable than painful (although for some women Braxton Hicks can feel painful)They do not increase in intensity, or frequencyThey taper off and then disappear altogether

If your contractions are easing up in any way, they are most likely Braxton Hicks.

[mamaMcAnulty]

Braxton Hicks contractions can begin as early as the second trimester. However they are most commonly experienced in the third trimester. When this happens, the muscles of the uterus tighten for approximately 30 to 60 seconds and sometimes as long as two minutes. Braxton Hicks are also called “practice contractions” because they are a preparation for the real event and allow the opportunity to practice the breathing exercises taught in childbirth classes.