When the time for labor approaches, pregnant women begin to expect the first signs that will indicate the beginning of labor. Originous women have no idea what they should feel, but those who have already given birth can understand what the body is signaling to them if there are pains in the lower abdomen that resemble contractions. In this article, we will talk about what false fights are and how to distinguish them from real ones.

False contractions have a scientific definition. They are called training contractions of the Brexton Hicks (named after the doctor who first substantiated this phenomenon with pregnant women). They are uterine contractions with the same strength as in childbirth, but they do not lead to delivery, but only train the uterus before childbirth. Not all women face training fights, their occurrence will directly depend on the individual characteristics of the pregnant woman’s body and the conditions in which she lives (physical activity of the pregnant woman, mobility in the womb, excitement, overexcitation, both emotional and sexual).

False contractions during pregnancy: symptoms

How to understand that you have started training fights. In fact, to understand this, you just need to remember a few factors determining this phenomenon:

1. In any part of the abdomen severe pain occurs - a woman feels as if something is tightly compressing her uterus.
2. Within an hour, such a sensation occurs less than 6.
3. They do not have a certain rhythm and cyclical nature; contractions arise suddenly.
4. By themselves they stop.

As a rule, all of the above symptoms do not occur until the third trimester. Usually the first false contractions occur at 36 weeks of gestation.

What to do if false contractions start?

When you feel the symptoms of false contractions at 38 weeks gestation, it's time to learn how to breathe properly. This skill facilitates the condition of women in childbirth and helps the baby to be born faster with minimal consequences for him. There are two good exercises that you need to learn for expectant mothers:

• When the fight begins, begin to slowly inhale the air, and when it begins to decline - quickly and deeply exhale (imagine that you are blowing out a candle).
• During the fight, often, often breathe (as dogs do), but do not overdo it so as not to lose consciousness, because with such breathing the necessary amount of oxygen does not enter the body.

The occurrence of false contractions at the 39th week of pregnancy is already very alarming for a woman, because the birth of a child at this time is a normal process. However, most often, cramping pains in the lower abdomen during this week of pregnancy are in no way associated with true precursors of childbirth. If you feel something like this, then try to distract yourself in this way:

• Take a walk along the street - go to the park, look at the water to calm your nerves and relax as much as possible.
• Take a warm shower or, in extreme cases, lie in warm water - this is very relaxing and eliminates pain.
• If false contractions arose when you were sitting or standing for a long time, then just try to change the position - lie down or walk.
• Drink tea, juice or just a glass of water.
• Listen to your favorite music or watch a good series.

False contractions at 40 weeks of gestation can also occur, but they should already be treated more carefully, since they can be true. Despite the claims of doctors that real contractions are easy to distinguish from false ones due to very severe pain, you should know that in addition to it, you will experience other symptoms:

• Water may drain from you - the amniotic fluid will pour out from the perineum, in which your child lived and developed for 9 months.
• Within an hour, you have contractions that last 5 minutes.
• The child is not so actively moving - no more than 10 times in 2 hours.
• You may start both minor and severe bleeding, which signals the onset of placental abruption.

To better survive the contractions and the entire process of a long and painful childbirth, follow our recommendations:

1. Try to relax as much as possible. At the time of severe pain, do not bite your lips, do not bend your face, you need to control yourself and think about something abstract. It's time to dream.
2. Breathe very deeply. This will not only ease your suffering for you, but also greatly help your baby. Indeed, in the process of its movement along the birth canal. The baby is sorely lacking oxygen.
3. Do not scream, because this will only aggravate the pain, you will get tired faster, and strength will be needed during the attempts, when the child will already be born.
4. Move more actively - do not lie. The movement stimulates the rapid opening of the cervix. You can dance, swing on the fitball, walk, squat - anything.
5. Ask the person who will be present at your birth to give you lower back massage. Just be careful in this process, because in this way you can get a severe burn, which will only intensify the pain.
6. Listen carefully to the obstetrician who will help you give birth. You must be aware that it will depend on you how long the birth will take and how difficult it will be for your baby.

Your task is also to learn to understand your body during pregnancy, to hear its prompts. The ability to feel your body can be acquired in yoga classes. Too many women before childbirth take training courses there. If you believe their reviews, then in childbirth the knowledge gained helped them a lot - they took the right postures so that the pain was not so strong.

Video “Labor pains. How to distinguish false from real? ”

This video provides detailed instructions on how to immediately distinguish between false contractions and real ones. In addition, it is clearly demonstrated what and how to do in order to alleviate the condition during fights.

She wears her baby, she hopes that the birth will begin on time and everything will be fine. But unexpectedly for herself, she
suddenly begins to feel some discomfort.

What the expectant mother feels reminds her of labor. A woman in complete bewilderment - it's too early. These can be false fights, which will be discussed in this informative article. Many women, having felt such discomfort, hurry to the maternity hospital with confidence that the birth has begun. But after the specialist examines the pregnant woman, he informs her that she can safely return home. It’s too early to give birth to her.

Changes in a pregnant woman

What happens to a pregnant woman? Why does she feel the same pain as in contractions? Or does she just think so?

False contractions during pregnancy occur in almost every woman. And all this because incredible changes are taking place in the body. Without them, the expectant mother and her baby will not be able to prepare for childbirth. Perestroika mainly occurs where the genitals are located. It is important that the cervix is \u200b\u200bproperly matured and softened. And when this begins to happen, the future mother feels that the uterine muscles begin to contract.

Training fights

When such cramps begin, they do not indicate that the uterus is already ripe. Pregnant women can begin to feel such training contractions by the 20th week. They do not particularly bother the future mom and pass almost painlessly. And when false contractions begin, the pregnant woman feels them very well. Especially the future mother feels them well before the birth. But for each woman, the duration of such fights varies greatly in duration and in sensations. In some, they begin a few weeks before the expected birth, and in another category of pregnant women, such cramps can begin several hours before this event.

False contractions from effective spasms can be difficult to distinguish even for such mothers, in whom the child is not the first. The pain that accompanies this moment is carried by women in different ways.

What kind of animal is this - false fights?

Many imaginary cramps or, as they are also called - precursors of childbirth, mainly begin at the 37th week of gestation. And they differ from the "real" contractions, in principle, only by the sign that the cervix remains closed. The question arises: "Is this normal?" Due to the fact that training fights sometimes occur, the cervix of a pregnant woman can prepare for the upcoming tests. Subsequently, in the process of "real" spasms, it will be revealed quite simply. In general, there is no pathology in this.

In the process of cervical contraction, another “event” occurs - a cork in the form of bloody discharge comes off. When this happens, the cervix begins to soften. Many pregnant women do not even notice this moment (cork detachment). But there are exceptions. Then the future mom and hurries to the hospital, experiencing pain and false contractions.

How to determine?

False contractions during pregnancy are a pretty painful process. But it does not last long. When such contractions appear, the future mother should understand for herself that she will soon have to give birth.

False contractions at 37 weeks appear in almost all pregnant women. They are accompanied by pain, as muscle contraction begins. The lower abdomen pulls, the uterus tenses, but there is no pain in the back. Therefore, it is recommended to simply lie down, and soon the pregnant woman will feel better. You can also take a bath or shower to facilitate contractions. But the water should be warm. Doctors also advise asking her husband to massage his back. But not much. The pain will soon subside.

Of course, the future mother can be understood, because she is so impatiently waiting for the baby to appear. When the first precursors of childbirth begin to appear, she is ready to believe that it is time to go to the hospital. But do not rush. Let everything go as it should. It is better to devote this time to taking care of yourself and prepare for a meeting with the little one. You can check again - is everything ready? And also it's time to start collecting the bag in the hospital. Make it better yourself, and not rely on your beloved husband.

But even during this period, pregnant women are recommended to be very vigilant. False contractions can easily develop into real harbingers of childbirth. It may happen that the future mother does not have time to get to the hospital, if you do not pay attention to the symptoms. So the situation must be monitored. This most often happens with women who have already given birth. This is because the precursors do not pass this time as intensively as those pregnant women who will give birth for the first time.

Comparative analysis

So, we know that there are false fights. How to identify them and not panic?

1. The nature of pain without time intervals. In intensity they remain the same as in the beginning.
2. Fights appear no more than 4 times in sixty minutes.
3. They are mild, the pregnant woman does not feel that the cramps have become stronger.
4. Contractions are felt only in the lower abdomen or in the location of the pelvis.
5. If they pass, then after the pregnant woman lay down. Or, on the contrary, it was like.

"Real" fights

1. The duration of the “real” fights is up to one minute. And the duration of rest between them is becoming less and less.
2. Cramps occur more than five times in sixty minutes.
3. They are painful, their frequency is constantly growing.
4. Painful symptoms appear in the back, especially in its lower part. The pregnant woman feels unpleasant pressure below.
5. Even if a woman does something or just lies, the contractions do not “appease”, but, on the contrary, become stronger.

All of the above signs indicate that these are no longer false fights. How to determine? You must own information and listen to yourself. Now we understand that the main thing is to monitor the situation and not miss the initial stage of the “existing” fights. It is necessary to approach this moment very seriously and not to forget that it depends on the woman’s vigilance how and where the birth will take place, as well as how it will end.

How to distinguish contractions from false spasms? It becomes clear if you carefully read the article.

And now we can move on to another important question: “Is it possible to reduce the discomfort that a pregnant woman feels during imaginary contractions?”

Discomfort reduction

In order not to experience torment with imaginary contractions, it is necessary for a pregnant woman to rest more often. After all, such spasms are amplified because mom decides to put everything in order before giving birth. And here begins: washing, cleaning, ironing, cooking ... And it’s good if the woman has not yet started repairs. All this can be done gradually, without overloading an already tired organism. If the imaginary contractions begin to bother when the pregnant woman is lying, then she needs to get up and move a little. It also happens that you just need to eat or drink something in order to alleviate the condition. The pain that a pregnant woman experiences can be used to learn how to breathe properly. This will definitely be needed in the process of labor pains.

Doubt

If the pregnant woman doubts the nature of her spasms, then it is still better to play it safe and go to the hospital. How long do false contractions last? No one can answer this question with confidence. In some women, they last a long time, while in other mothers, false cramps smoothly flow into the “active” precursors of childbirth. If your sensations are very painful, then you can not do without the help of a specialist. For those who have tried all the recommendations that were given in the article, but did not receive relief, the doctor recommends a medicine. It will help relieve this pain. Many women get used to the constant discomfort, so the impending birth can be a surprise to them.

When is it necessary to rush to the hospital?

To summarize

1. A pregnant woman should understand that imaginary contractions are not childbirth, but only the harbingers of their imminent beginning.
2. The pain in imaginary contractions is similar to the one that a woman experienced during menstruation.
3. It is impossible to tense up when such spasms occur. On the contrary, it’s better to relax.
4. You need to learn how to breathe correctly - it will come in handy.

Everything is in the hands of a pregnant woman. If she tries to follow all the recommendations, she will feel good. A woman will be able to properly prepare both herself and her baby for the upcoming event.

By the time the baby appears, most expectant mothers are fully prepared.

The necessary medicines were prepared, their belongings and tiny little clothes were packed, documents and medical records were checked. Some tried to create a cozy and beautiful nursery, to get the best toys.

The climax of pregnancy is inevitably approaching and everything is ready for the appearance of crumbs. And the closer this moment, the more anxious mommy. Of course, in the first place the excitement about the well-being of delivery.

But there is also a fear of contractions during pregnancy and worries about skipping the beginning of the labor process.

Physiology of contractions during pregnancy

Panic in pregnant women is associated with a lack of reliable information and, of course, experience. For some reason, it is fights, despite the naturalness of this phenomenon, fanned by fables and myths. And the negative stories of experienced acquaintances only exacerbate the situation. Each woman in labor has her own pain threshold. And knowing the physiology of each stage, accompanied by contractions, and having learned how to react to them correctly, you can significantly reduce pain and alleviate your condition.

What is going on in the body?

Everything is provided for and calculated by nature to the smallest detail. The entire process of pregnancy proceeds according to a universal algorithm, and the change of conditions occurs under the influence of hormones leading at a certain moment. Pregnant hormone progesterone, which successfully supported all 9 months and uterine tone, and the development of the baby before childbirth gives way to estrogen and oxytocin.

The cervix, tightly closed during pregnancy, prevents the opening of the uterus and the penetration of infections inside. Before childbirth, it should open, freeing the way for the baby. To do this, her tissues must become more elastic and supple. Estrogen copes with this task perfectly. It also makes the uterus sensitive to oxytocin and prostaglandins. Under their influence, contractions of the walls of the uterus begin, allowing the baby to take the correct position and move along the birth canal.

Contractions and hormone balance

Muscle contractions of the uterus are called contractions during pregnancy, which, depending on the period, have different intensities. With each fight, the muscles of the uterus pull the cervix, so it opens. By the time of birth, the cervix opens up to 12 cm, and the uterus becomes almost a continuation of the vagina. The whole process is accompanied by a change in the level of hormones that are intensively produced by the placenta, pituitary and fetus.

Oddly enough, but it is fear that can affect labor activity. He is able to increase both the duration of the preparatory contractions, which take away strength from mommy, and pain. The hormones cortisol and adrenaline released into the bloodstream during stress, fear, and anxiety block the production of major birth hormones.

False contractions during pregnancy

Changes in hormonal balance occur throughout pregnancy. Therefore, uterine contractions can appear long before childbirth. In this way, both the uterus and the cervix are prepared for future births. These contractions during pregnancy are called false, training, or Brexton Hicks.

What are the sensations during false contractions during pregnancy?

Of course, women who gave birth easily distinguish between false fights and real ones. These unforgettable sensations cannot be confused with any other pain. But how do women behave during their first pregnancy? It makes no sense to go to the hospital with every incomprehensible symptom. It is necessary to focus on your feelings:

1. These contractions during pregnancy practically do not cause pain, but, most likely, discomfort in the form of pulling or aching sensations. The uterus seems to shrink, which some are already familiar with when it was in good shape. The contractions are felt in the upper or lower abdomen, can give in the groin.

2. Pain is concentrated in one area and does not extend to the lower back and to other places.

3. Occur unexpectedly and gradually fade. More often occur in the evening or at night, when the body is relaxed and mommy listens to her feelings. Some, on the contrary, experience discomfort after physical exertion or stress.

4. Differ in irregularity and short duration. The duration of false contractions during pregnancy does not exceed a minute. And repeated at irregular intervals. They can occur several times (up to six) per hour, or even per day.

The surefire way to determine the falsity of contractions during pregnancy is to fix its duration and frequency. Unlike real fights, sensations with false ones will not increase, and they will be repeated chaotically.

What can provoke false contractions during pregnancy?

Natural contractions of the uterus occur throughout almost the entire pregnancy. But their future mothers begin to feel them after 20 weeks. With the approach of labor, the likelihood of their occurrence increases. Some women were fortunate enough not to experience false contractions during pregnancy, and this is not a pathology. This does not mean that preparatory reductions are absent. It’s just that they may not be so intense, or the future mother did not notice them, did not attach importance. Also, the perception of false contractions during pregnancy depends on individual sensitivity.

However, there are provocative factors that increase the likelihood of unpleasant cramping pains. False contractions may occur under the influence of:

Physical activity;

Violent activity of the fetus;

Stress and nervous shocks;

Body dehydration;

Crowded bladder;

Sexual activity.

What to do in case of false contractions?

For most pregnant women, false contractions do not cause frightening discomfort. But for some women with a high pain threshold, training uterine contractions become real pain. In this case, it is recommended:

1. Use a warm bath or shower if there are no contraindications. Warm water will ease muscle tension. And aromatic oils added to the water will calm the nervous system.

2. Go for a walk. Fresh air and slow walking will reduce discomfort.

3. Change the pose. An awkward position can provoke uterine tension.

4. Lie down and relax. Pleasant music and soothing aromas of oils will help eliminate discomfort.

False contractions during pregnancy are a good reason to take advantage of knowledge about proper breathing during contractions.

If training contractions worry closer to childbirth, you need to follow other signs. Since such a training can calmly go from the dress rehearsal to the most real contractions during pregnancy and signal the beginning of childbirth.

How do real contractions begin during pregnancy?

Real contractions during pregnancy begin suddenly. Do not worry, letting this moment pass is simply impossible. Even the fight that has begun during a night's rest will wake the future mother. At this moment, obviously will not be up to sleep. Women describe the beginning of labor in different ways. But, no matter what the woman experiences, they cannot be confused with training contractions.

True contractions are expressed:

Regularity;

Increased pain.

Gradual decrease in the intervals between contractions;

The increase in the duration of the bout.

What will tell about the approach of childbirth?

Even before the onset of contractions during pregnancy, a woman can predict the approaching climax from the changes occurring to her. Under the influence of a changing hormonal balance immediately before childbirth begins:

1. Slightly reduce weight to three kg or stop gaining weight. 2. To lose appetite.

2. Manifest excessive emotionality. Inadequate reactions to events, words due to increased levels of estrogen.

3. There is a change in mood, moodiness.

4. A breeding instinct appears. Pregnant women have a desire to urgently take up repairs or cleaning, to rearrange furniture.

5. To lower the belly, which gives mom the opportunity immediately before childbirth to facilitate breathing.

6. Decrease swelling of the face, hands. However, edema may appear on the legs due to fetal pressure on the lower abdomen and pressure on the vessels.

7. To feel pain in the lower back, due to a change in the position of the fetus and the extension of the pelvic bones.

Frequent urination, a change in stool, and even vomiting may occur. All these signs are very individual: each pregnant woman manifests itself in different ways and at different times.

A sure symptom of the approach of childbirth is a cork discharge, manifested by secretions. They can be transparent, and in the form of a bloody brown liquid. The cork can come off a few weeks before delivery, and during labor.

The kid also prepares for the upcoming process and stops the rapid movements.

If the fetal bladder bursts, and the water begins to drain, even without preliminary contractions during pregnancy, there is no doubt in the advisability of visiting the hospital. This is a sure sign that the birth process has begun.

After the discharge of water, contractions necessarily begin. But even if there is some kind of pathology and the contractions do not start, you need to urgently go to the hospital.

What sensations accompany the onset of labor during pregnancy?

Most women distinguish the first contractions intuitively. They cause tension in the abdomen and pulling aching pains that spread to the lower back, groin and are girdle-like. Some compare sensations with menstrual pains, only several times stronger. It seems that the uterus is grabbed and squeezed by an invisible hand from the inside. Starting at the top of the abdomen with tension as the contractions increase during pregnancy, the pain intensifies, it covers the entire abdomen. The lower back and pelvic bones are under intense pressure. Some women report severe lumbar pain and the spread of sensations in the legs to the very toes. Gradually, the pain is released, and a pause appears, allowing you to rest.

The first contractions can last up to 15 seconds, and a break of between them 20-30 minutes. The duration of the cramp during pregnancy gradually increases, and the period of rest decreases. At the same time, pain is increasing.

What does a primiparous woman need to know about contractions during pregnancy?

In nulliparous women, contractions begin minor painthat are more like discomfort. But even they cause panic. At these moments, you need to calm down and relax as much as possible. Do not fuss, try to finish some business. Ahead is still hard work that requires strength. Prenatal contractions in primiparas can last up to 8-10 hours.

If possible, this time should be devoted to relaxation and rest. Pregnant women are advised to record the time and duration of labor. And it's not easy to pinpoint time, but to record data. This will help determine the period when you should go to the hospital, and doctors can track the dynamics of the process and find possible deviations in time.

The duration of contractions, accompanied by pain, tension, gradually increases. And when between fights intervals will be less than 15 minutesDo not postpone the visit to the clinic. If during pregnancy any pathologies were noted or the water flowed away, bleeding started, you need to urgently call an ambulance, and not wait for more contractions during pregnancy.

It is common for women to panic and fear before the first birth. Therefore, at the first fights, one of the relatives should be nearby. If this is not possible, if you feel pain, urgently report that you are giving birth to relatives, friends or even neighbors.

In primiparas can be observed weak patrimonial independent activity. Because of this, after a certain period of contractions during pregnancy, expressed by periodicity and severe pain, the intensity can subside, and the pain completely disappear. This does not mean that the contractions were false. In this case, urgent help is needed for doctors who can figure out the cause of the pathology and stimulate labor. Inaction in this situation threatens the life of the baby and woman in childbirth.

Features of prenatal contractions in multiparous women

Women giving birth in advance feel the approach of childbirth. According to the main signs, they can predict the beginning of the process. However, if after the previous birth no more than five years have passed, all processes can go faster. The body, having muscle memory, easily adapts to changes and responds more quickly to them.

In addition, the neck tissue has not yet had time to come into prenatal form. They stretch faster, and the neck opens. Unlike primordial women, shortening of the neck occurs simultaneously with the opening.

Pain in contractions in multiparous begin immediately more tangible. More common is the rupture of the amniotic fluid and the discharge of water. The period of prenatal labor does not last more than six hours, and sometimes rapid childbirth is observed. Therefore, it is not advisable for such women in labor to postpone the visit to the clinic until the last. If there is no desire to give birth at home or in an ambulance, you need to go to the maternity hospital immediately after the appearance of contractions or take care of this in advance and wait for the birth activity in the hospital under supervision.

Unlike the first birth, the process is not stimulated, but they are trying to slow down. During rapid childbirth, the probability of a baby's injuries and breaks in a woman in childbirth is high. Therefore, a woman needs to listen to the recommendations of doctors during labor and delivery.

How to behave pregnant during labor?

Contraction during pregnancy will certainly increase, become longer, and the pain intensifies. Pain sensations cover almost the entire body, do not give an opportunity to rest, and practically merge into a series of attacks. It seems to the woman that this will never end. With a high pain threshold for women in labor, doctors can offer painkillers. But it is worth remembering that you can independently influence your condition.

Nature provides labor pain relief. The hormone endorphin produced by the pituitary gland is able to reduce pain. But this process is quite fragile. Screams, tears, fear, strong feelings, panic can break this mechanism and only exacerbate the situation. It is impossible to relax physically, having psychological tension. Therefore, women during labor during pregnancy are recommended:

1. Use the relaxation techniques that you met in the courses.

2. Try to take poses in which pain is not felt so sharply. You can just walk. Squatting, on all fours helps someone.

3. Use the time between contractions during pregnancy to relax.

4. During the fight, especially at the peak of pain, apply breathing techniques. Frequent intermittent breathing will alleviate the condition.

5. Apply anesthetic massage. Massage helps in the lower back, sacrum or neck.

6. Do not refuse the help of relatives and listen to the recommendations of doctors.

Remember, every new fight during pregnancy brings a wonderful moment of the baby's appearance.

He is also afraid of these minutes: the affectionate uterus for some reason became hostile. All pain will be quickly forgotten. And this day will be the most wonderful day in the life of your crumbs.

The last few weeks of pregnancy are the most exciting and at the same time the most disturbing. A woman listens to the slightest sensations in the body and expects that childbirth can begin at any time. To prepare for childbirth, you need to remember that labor does not always end in labor. They may also be called false or training. How to distinguish them and is it possible to figure it out on your own?

First, find out what a fight is. These are rhythmic contractions of the uterus that appear sporadically. The main difference between false and real is that training ones tend to pass quickly.  The real harbingers of childbirth only intensify, overshadowing all other sensations. Often they are accompanied by severe back pain.

Body training

Preparatory contractions are training for the uterus and abdominal muscles. They appear mainly in the second half of pregnancy, starting from the 20th week. Although the term for each woman may be different. Someone is faced with this category of contractions shortly before birth, and someone does not feel training fights at all.

False contractions are contractions of the smooth muscles of the uterus that do not cause discomfort. In some cases, they are so insignificant that a woman will not even feel them. This is a kind of gymnastics for the uterus. She is preparing for the upcoming event - childbirth. From her ability to stretch depends on how quickly the process of childbirth will end. At the same time, these reductions allow the expectant mother to practice before the main event. It is necessary to learn how to breathe properly, distributing the forces of the body.

Characteristic signs of false contractions:

1. Painlessness.
2. Inconstancy, up to once in 5-7 hours. May be observed less frequently. With an increase in the term, the frequency of training fights increases.
3. At night, do not cause discomfort. Many women sleep without feeling that the body is doing preparatory work.
4. In the daytime, they often go unnoticed, especially if the expectant mother continues to work and actively spends her day.
5. Often, stress can be relieved by taking a warm bath or changing posture.
6. The cervix does not open.
7. No bleeding, discharge of water, girdle pain.
8. The muscles of the uterus are in tension for no more than one minute.

The reasons for the appearance of training contractions

Preliminary fights appear for a reason. There are reasons that can trigger a false alarm:

• increased activity of the expectant mother;
• activity of the baby in the womb throughout the day;
• excitement and stressful situations of the mother, experiences;
• full bladder;
• dehydration:
• sexual stress. Having sex helps the uterus contract by training the walls of the organ. Sperm contains the hormone prostaglandin, which softens the cervix, and it becomes more elastic.

There is no consensus on the benefits of false contractions, but they allow a woman to repeat the exercises that she undergoes in a birth preparation school. You can practice proper breathing. This is a great opportunity to pull yourself together and eliminate panic. At the same time, the intensity and frequency of contractions may increase.

Breathe right

Not always a woman can independently distinguish whether it is false alarm or childbirth has begun. How to distinguish false fights from real ones? You need to listen to your body. If rhythmic contractions are gaining momentum, then it's time to recall breathing exercises:

1. "Slow breathing." Exhale slowly during the struggle, making room for the next breath. Then take a deep breath. Alternate.
2. "Like a dog". It is advisable to perform in the process of reductions. Frequent breathing, shallow. Be careful not to get dizzy. This indicates a deficiency of oxygen in the body.
3. "Candle". Deep breath through the nose - sharp and quick exhalation through the mouth.

Already giving birth?

In the last stages of pregnancy, especially when a couple of weeks remain before the birth itself, the pregnant woman listens very carefully to her body. Somewhere pulling, somewhere aching ...

In order not to worry about this, it is enough to remember that:

• Real harbingers of labor have a tendency to increase. Their frequency is increasing.
• Painful sensations become stronger and brighter.
• The pain is girdle-like, switching from the lower abdomen to the lumbar region. Bloody discharge appears.
• Amniotic fluid may drain. In this case, the birth of the baby should occur within 10-12 hours to prevent infection in the womb.
• The intensity of contractions increases in the same way as the depth.
• There is a strong pressure in the perineum.

If the above signals appear, you should immediately contact the doctor who led your pregnancy. If there is no way to get to the hospital yourself, then it is better to call an ambulance team.

False contractions during pregnancy can appear immediately before the term itself. They are characterized by the appearance of unpleasant symptoms in the lower abdomen. There is nothing to worry about in this process, it’s preparation for real contractions and births, so to speak. It is important to understand that this is a false alarm and to be able to distinguish this condition from the present birth process.

ICD-10 code

O47 False contractions

The reasons for false contractions

False contractions can affect a strong blood flow to the placenta. They play a role in stimulating the muscles of the uterus, to maintain its tone. In addition, they are indeed responsible for the cervical dilation process. One thing is for sure - they are preparing the body of the expectant mother for the upcoming birth.

False contractions are also called Braxon Hicks contractions. They are able to appear regardless of external factors. True, some points can be noted that can provoke their development.

There are some of the most common causes of this phenomenon. So, most often their development provokes an unhealthy lifestyle, especially a craving for bad habits. Excessive consumption of coffee, also products containing caffeine, makes its negative contribution.

Dehydration of the body, as well as a full bladder, can provoke this condition. Lack of nutrients in the body, as well as stress, lack of sleep - all this leads to premature contractions. Increased fetal activity and sex (orgasm) can affect the condition. But first of all, it is the physical activity of the pregnant woman and the activity of the fetus in the uterus. Thus, after charging or walking, a woman can feel contractions.

Pathogenesis

The development and manifestation of the contractions of Braxon Hicks occurs at the beginning of the conception of the child. Formation in the body happens in almost all women. They mainly occur in the genital area. When favorable conditions are created for the child and his development, the placenta develops, gas exchange and metabolism between the child and the mother occur through it.

The goal of perestroika is to prepare the cervix for future births. During the period of change in the body, a woman will feel a reduction in the uterine muscles. At the time of such contractions, the uterus matures and softens. Also, with contractions of the uterine muscles, the cork escapes, which manifests itself in the form of blood secretions.

Tissues of the cervix and vagina - should become elastic and stretchable, but strong and tear resistant. The cervix is \u200b\u200blocated in the center of the vagina, becoming half as long. The cervical canal opens slightly, which connects the uterine cavity and vagina. The clearance of the neck should be ajar and easily passable, with a diameter of 2-2.5 cm. The baby's head lowers as low as possible and is pressed firmly against the entrance to the small pelvis. Not one week is spent on such a significant restructuring of the body!

Symptoms of false contractions during pregnancy

Around the twentieth week of pregnancy, false contractions may appear. False contractions are mostly similar to real ones. The difference between such contractions is the intensity and regularity. With false contractions, a uterine contraction lasts from a few seconds to two minutes.

A woman experiences a feeling of contraction in the abdomen - in its upper part, below, sometimes in the inguinal region. Such fights occur irregularly, you can track the time between them. This will allow you to navigate in the general condition of the woman, and see how many fights occur in one hour. Sensations can extend only to one area. If real contractions are recorded, then for them characteristic unpleasant sensations in the lower back, and soreness is also present. Gradually, the power of false contractions decreases, and they disappear. Unpleasant symptoms begin to pester the expectant mother. There is discomfort in the uterus and lower abdomen. Contractions are irregular.

First signs

There are first signs by which it immediately becomes clear that false contractions have begun. Compression begins to be felt in the lower abdomen or groin, as well as in the upper part of the uterus. Discomfort is felt only in one part of the abdomen. Contractions can be irregular and occur both several times a day, and a couple of times per hour. In some cases, their number is 6 bouts for 60 minutes. Discomfort is felt, but contractions can be painless. There is no clear rhythm of what is happening. The intensity of contractions can decrease sharply.

Distinguishing real fights from false fights is quite simple. At the real beginning of the process, severe pains are felt. Contractions occur throughout the abdomen and pain spread to the lower back. The repetition of contractions occurs every 15, 10, and then 5 minutes. There is increasing intensity - 5 times per minute. The growth of the bout in duration and the presence of other signs of a beginning labor (amniotic fluid flow, mucous plug discharge, diarrhea, pulling pains in the lower spine).

Effects

In this condition, certain risk factors are observed.

• Polyhydramnios - an excess of amniotic fluid in the expectant mother over 1500ml. This condition is characterized by the presence of a large tummy, and its size does not at all correspond to the real term. Acute - develops quickly and in the early stages of pregnancy. Excessive development of the abdomen is observed, shortness of breath appears, tension occurs on the walls of the uterus, severe pain occurs.
• Chronic - develops already in the late stages of pregnancy, the development of symptoms occurs more slowly and is not so pronounced.
• Habitual miscarriage. Common causes leading to such a diagnosis are: genetic disposition, anatomical features, hormones, the state of immunity of the expectant mother, as well as infection. Many diseases like gonorrhea, rubella, syphilis, herpes and even flu.
• Isthmic-cervical insufficiency. As a result of injuries of the cervix, muscle tissue is replaced by scar tissue, which is less elastic and harder and harder. In this regard, the cervix loses its ability to contract and stretch, respectively, it will not be able to hold the contents of the uterus.

And also there are still such consequences as: the presence of chronic foci of infection, edema, hormonal disorders, immune disorders, multiple pregnancy, the presence of a scar on the uterus.

Complications

The most serious complication is termination of pregnancy at different times, in some cases, termination can begin with the outflow of amniotic fluid, as well as without them. In many cases, isthmic-cervical insufficiency is accompanied by infection of the fetus due to the absence of a barrier from microorganisms in the form of a closed cervix and cervical mucus, which protects the uterine cavity and its contents from bacteria. Also, complication of pregnancy can cause an excess of amniotic fluid.

It can be gestosis, which is a lesion of the placenta and blood vessels. Rhesus conflict is observed - with it agglutination occurs. During the maturation of the fetus, the red blood cells of the child carry the D-antigen, which are found in the red blood cells of a Rh-negative pregnant woman and stick together. Low hemoglobin - a lack of iron in the blood leads to disruption of the liver, decreased protein production, disrupted water metabolism. Headaches appear, preeclampsia and eclampsia occur, is an indicator of termination of childbirth. The pathology of the placenta is not excluded.

Diagnosis of false contractions during pregnancy

Diagnostic methods are carried out exclusively by a doctor. Just examine the patient and interview her. It is desirable that there is data on the course of pregnancy, on the period for which the woman is. You need to know what position the baby is in and when the birth is planned.

The period of occurrence of contractions is noted. It is important to know all the intervals between contractions and their regularity. The time interval between contractions is counted and special attention is paid to the outflow of amniotic fluid. The degree of maturity and disclosure of the cervix is \u200b\u200bdetermined.

It is important to record data on the recording of fetal cardiac activity, they are necessary to monitor the condition of the child. In addition, the establishment of the estimated gestational age. All this together constitutes diagnostic measures to determine the contractions and their reliability.

Analyzes

Throughout pregnancy, the expectant mother should carefully monitor her health and especially monitor her nutrition and lifestyle. She will have to visit a doctor several times and take various tests.

• The first trip to the doctor obstetrician-gynecologist must be done no later than 11 weeks. On this first trip, you need to become pregnant for registration and pass the required tests. Analyzes for expectant mothers: general urine analysis; general blood analysis; Rhesus factor donate blood for HIV, syphilis; test for the presence of viral hepatitis B; smear on the flora.
• The second visit to the doctor usually occurs at 12-13 weeks. When the time is right for the first ultrasound. It also measures temperature, body weight, blood pressure, pulse and an external obstetric examination.
• At the third visit to the doctor for 19-21 weeks, a second ultrasound is done and the test results, as well as the test results. Urinalysis, a protein test, a blood test for HIV and a double biochemical test.

A general blood test and glucose tolerance test are given for 24-25 weeks. In the following visits to the obstetrician-gynecologist, they do the same examinations and analyzes as before.

Instrumental diagnostics

As mentioned above, the expectant mother will have to undergo an ultrasound scan. This is the only safe and informative method that makes it possible to monitor the condition of the fetus in the womb.

In the first stages of pregnancy, ultrasound is done only for a number of reasons. Such as: pain in the lower abdomen with delay and suspected pregnancy; vaginal bleeding; artificial insemination; the exception of an undeveloped pregnancy.

Campaigns to the doctor on ultrasound. At 12-13 weeks - the gestation period is determined by the baby himself. The heartbeat is counted perfectly, the fetus is quite active. At this stage, a diagnosis is made regarding a possible abortion. At 19-21 weeks - the weight and growth of the fetus are determined; the location, structure and thickness of the placenta; amount of amniotic fluid; the presence of anomalies in the forms of the skull and other limbs. At 32 weeks - previously undetected problems in the development of the fetus are determined; location and maturity of the placenta; the condition of the fetus and blood circulation; there is a condition of scars on the uterus.

By the third trip to ultrasound, the presentation of the fetus (pelvic or head) is determined, since by this time the fetus occupies its position in which it will be born.

Differential diagnosis

In some cases, uterine activity is taken for real contractions, such activity is called false contractions. When a pregnant woman complains of pulling, painful pains in the lower abdomen, the diagnosis of false contractions makes sense to differentiate from true contractions.

False contractions occur unequally in strength and duration, pain, are repeated at different intervals. With weak labor: labor pains are regular, weak, equal in strength and duration. During this period of time, an external examination is performed, where the tone of the uterus is observed.

With such contractions, a pregnant woman may experience complaints of painful and prolonged sensations in the lower abdomen. But the exclusion of the preliminary period in the future mother allows the fact that the pain was removed by intramuscular injection of the drug papaverine. In addition, during 6 hours (the normal duration of the preliminary period), and in the following hours the onset of the first period of labor did not occur, this confirms the false contractions.

Treatment of false contractions during pregnancy

If the pain lasts no more than 6 hours, then treatment in this case is not applied. When the process has a pathological course, obstetric sleep is prescribed. Much depends directly on the symptoms and how a woman feels.

Most often, treatment includes a number of basic activities. Antispasmodics are widely used to reduce pain, most often it is No-shpa. Often resort to the help of vitamin therapy. A woman can take both special medicines for mothers and eat more fruits containing healthy vitamins and minerals. It can be fruits, dairy products and vegetables.

It is recommended that you position the bed so that your legs are slightly raised. This will remove the mechanical effect of the fetus on the lower segment of the uterus, which irritates the receptors and helps to increase the tone and contractility of the uterus.

Often used and physiotherapy. With a strong overexcitation of a woman, preference is given to sedatives. It is advisable to take herbal teas, valerian and motherwort, but only in tablets! Immunotherapy is widely used and placental insufficiency is prevented.

Medication

Medical treatment of pregnant women requires a special and thoughtful approach. Many drugs negatively affect the fetus and pregnancy. A few weeks before giving birth, false contractions become more painful and bring more discomfort.

With painful sensations, many doctors individually prescribe No-shpu. She is a safe drug for the expectant mother and baby, acts quickly and effectively. Taking this drug reduces uterine tension and relieves cramping, thereby relieving pain in false contractions. However, not the entire pregnancy cycle is taken, since there is the possibility of opening the cervix. Before taking, you need to consult a doctor.

• No-shpa. This tool will help relieve spasms and thereby protect the woman from false contractions. It is enough to take it 2 times a day for 2 tablets. The exact dosage may be prescribed by your doctor. Contraindications: hypersensitivity, impaired liver and kidney function. Side effects: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, allergic reactions.
• If the future mother has an excess of male sex hormones and there is a chance of interruption, dexamethasone is prescribed. Take the drug with caution and only on the recommendation of a doctor, given all the side effects.
• Dexamethasone. In the acute period it is used in high doses. The dosage regimen is individual. Contraindications: hypersensitivity. Side effects: well tolerated, can only cause allergic reactions.

For hormonal development, accelerate lung development, betamethasone is prescribed. The doctor prescribes the dosage and regimen of the drug individually, taking into account the side effects.

Betamethasone. The tool is used in a small dose, it can be 0.25-0.5 mg. The duration of treatment is prescribed by a specialist. Contraindications: hypertension, syphilis, diabetes mellitus, systemic mycoses. Side effects: weight gain, insomnia, menstrual irregularities.

Alternative treatment

During pregnancy, a woman experiences pain during false contractions. There are several methods to alleviate these discomforts and relieve discomfort.

You can just drink a glass of warm water or milk. This will significantly reduce discomfort and improve condition. A warm shower will help to cope with unpleasant symptoms. In no case should you take a bath! It is recommended to visit the pool to strengthen muscles and improve health.

Do not resort to the help of some tinctures or decoctions. First you need to see a doctor, and then apply certain techniques to improve the condition.

Sometimes it’s enough to relax and lie down for several minutes.

Expectant mother during false contractions has a good opportunity to practice proper breathing and choosing a comfortable position, which they will soon need when the birth occurs.

Herbal treatment

Many herbs are useful during pregnancy and have a number of useful and favorable properties for the expectant mother and her baby. However, some will need to be abandoned, because there is a likelihood of provoking a miscarriage.

During pregnancy, a woman may experience false contractions. Treat this condition is advised by herbs. Harmless herbs for the elimination of the common cold are: primrose, mother and stepmother, linden blossom, Altai root, rose hip, burdock and others.

Plants that have a laxative effect should not be taken during pregnancy, due to miscarriage and premature birth. These are plants such as: cassia, aloe, buckthorn.

Acceptance of other folk remedies that should be avoided: melia, hyssop, basil, turmeric, sumac.

Not all types of herbs to watch out for during pregnancy are listed here. Whenever using a folk remedy, be sure to consult a doctor.

Homeopathy

During pregnancy, a woman's level of health decreases, so various disorders can occur. Such as false contractions, nausea and vomiting, muscle aches and back pain, eating and nervous disorders, etc. Homeopathy during pregnancy is much better than conventional medicine. One of the advantages of homeopathy is its harmlessness to the pregnant woman and her fetus, does not cause allergies and does not contain chemicals. The doctor should not only prescribe drugs to the expectant mother, but also explain to her everything that she feels, the child is worried about. After all, the fetus in the womb feels all the effects on the mother's body from the time of conception. It is important that the pregnancy takes place in an atmosphere of calm and happiness.

Taking homeopathic medicines during pregnancy can be taken at any stage. This is especially true for the first 3 months of pregnancy, where the risk of miscarriage is very high, doctors prescribe such drugs: Arnica, Sabina, Chamomilla, etc. A homeopathic medicine should be taken in small doses, acting on the body with a positive effect. However, if the drug is taken in large doses, there will be deterioration.

Prevention

Expectant mothers before and during pregnancy are prescribed homeopathic preparations depending on the state of the body. Taking homeopathic medicines during pregnancy plays a role in the prevention of various diseases in the newborn. Homeopathic treatment also helps future parents improve their health, thereby giving birth to a healthier child. A man with oligospermia and spermatogenesis disorders can undergo prophylaxis with homeopathic medicines, improving the quality and quantity of sperm. The girl is allowed to undergo prophylaxis for various types of infertility. Also, a girl who has had abortions is prescribed a homeopathic remedy (Aconite, Secale, Sabina, etc.) and only as prescribed by the doctor. The drug is taken throughout pregnancy 3 times a day until 16 weeks. Depending on the condition of the body, the doctor may prescribe another treatment. In the database of homeopathy, there are more than 100 drugs to treat this problem.

For the prevention and treatment of false contractions, the drug should be taken once an hour until the pain disappears. To improve the condition in all cases requires rest and bed rest. The most common drugs: Cimicifuga- for severe pain in the abdomen; Caulophyllum- is especially taken in the last weeks of pregnancy and prepares the cervix for childbirth.

Forecast

False contractions prepare the body of the future mother for the most important day of pregnancy. They can appear both at 20 weeks and until the end of pregnancy. To improve the condition and relieve discomfort, treatment methods were described above. With the effectiveness of treatment, there is a decrease in pain in a pregnant woman during uterine contractions.

Spontaneous administration of drugs and treatment with folk remedies is prohibited. Only on the recommendations and advice of a doctor, treatment and prevention are established. If during pregnancy there are complications or diseases, you should immediately consult a doctor.

From about 36 weeks, many begin to listen to their body. With the onset of 38 weeks, pregnancy is considered full-term, during this week the baby is usually born. If the birth did not start before 41 weeks, you need to go to hospitalization.

ICD-10 code

The woman’s body undergoes a complete restructuring during the period of bearing the child, it is the false contractions that prepare and train the expectant mother for childbirth. False contractions are a contraction of the muscles of the cervix. Such contractions are not accompanied by pain, but after a while they become noticeable and bring little discomfort.

Even for this state, its own designation was found. False contractions are also marked by the international classification of diseases. Thanks to this, it is much easier to classify the true condition of a woman.

Codes of the international classification of diseases: False contractions are divided: (O47.0) False contractions occurring up to 37 full weeks of pregnancy, (O47.1) false contractions, after 37 full weeks of pregnancy and O47.9 False contractions, unspecified. There are no exceptions to this. This status has been marked with a code for convenience. Because the fact of the presence of false contractions should be noted in the card of the woman in labor.