contractions

[LaLasmommie]

I am 20 weeks pregnant and have been having contractions for the last few weeks. My Dr is not sure what is causing them. He has me pretty much on bed rest and they are not stopping. Do you know what can be causing my contractions?

[jessid928]

Dehydration can cause you to have contractions. I know this because i was sent to the hospital at week 22 and also week 38 for extremely close contractions, and they ended up being because i was dehydrated!! i would ask my Dr if that could be a factor for you, because after an iv or two the contractions completely went away! Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy!!

[scadazz]

had the same experience this morning and i am also 20 weeks with my 3rd child. i rang my midwife and asked me alot of diagnostic questions but reassured me that they are just braxton hicks. ive never had them this early and painful but theres a first time for everything. just keep hydrated and if theres any bleeding or mucous then call your doc

[AshHole11]

Could just be Braxton Hicks contractions! Your body's way of preparing you for the REAL labor pains. I am 33 weeks along and have experienced some of these. Let me tell you, they can be painful. Especially if this is your first pregnancy and you're not sure what to expect. My best friend is 34 weeks along and she's been having Braxton Hicks since around the same time as you. Every pregnancy is different. Best of luck to you! :)

[Elaine Brown, MD]

Hi!
If you were my patient, I would tell you lots of stories about women who had contractions as early as you are and ended up delivering healthy full term babies.  It seems that some women just have them.  As long as they are not causing you to dilate, they are just a nuisance and not serious.  I have often wondered if the baby's movements can trigger contractions.
Good luck!
Dr B