18 weeks. Is what I felt Braxton Hicks contractions?

Question

This is my first pregnancy and I have been trying to find out what Braxton Hicks contractions feel like but everyone keeps saying that it feels like a normal contraction but less painful. I don't know what a normal contraction feels like because I've never been pregnant before. All I know is about an hour ago the middle of my lower stomach (right under my belly button) tensed up for about 10 or 15 seconds. It wasn't very painful but the tightness took my breath away. Am I experience Braxton Hicks contractions already or could it have been something else? Can anyone out there explain what one feels like so that a first timer like myself could understand? Thanks!

Answer 1

Sounds like you are!  I have had them since I was 23 weeks.

Answer 2

Sounds like braxton hicks to! Here are a couple of sites to let you know the difference between real contractions and fake ones. Remember real contraction last much longer than 15 seconds and are consistent.

Real contraction:

1. Consistent

2. Last 1 min. or more

3.  Doesn't stop with movement

4. start in back and move to the front

5. Call doctor / go to hospital when they are 5 min. or less apart.

False Contraction:

1. Irregular and not consistent  with being far apart

2. May stop with movement or activity

3. Contractions are painful/ are week

4. Usually only felt in the front and not in the back

I like the baby center the best  along with discovery health. they have both helped me a lot in my own pregnancy. Enjoy and good luck!

Answer 3

Yes you're experiencing braxton hicks.

They're not painful what so ever, and your stomach tightens up. The first time I had one it litterly took my breath away.