Braxton Hicks--Help!

[Adamsmama]

I'm only 16w2d and I've been having BH contrax all day today. This is the first time I felt them during this pregnancy. It seems so early to me and I'm worried...I've been really thirsty all day too...I've had 10 cups of fluid today (no caffeine). I didn't get BH until the 3rd trimester with DS...Do you think I should call the dr?

[indiegirl]

Drink more water--like a half-gallon. Lay down. Take some calcium supplements. Rest and relax. If they come more than 5 or 6 an hour, or with increasing regularity/pain, call the dr. It's normal to have BH at this stage--hydration is the single most important thing you can do to prevent preterm labor.

Jesse

[MonkeyPrincess]

I went through the same thing with my last pregnancy, they started at 14-15 weeks or so. As long as they don't become painful, like a "real" contraction and you are drinking plenty of water, I wouldn't be worried. If it would make you feel more comfortable, you could mention it to your doc/mw at your next appt.

[TalkToMeNow]

I say its better to call the dr than to worry... it'll make you feel better, even if they just tell you the same thing everyone else did. Let us know how you feel!

[MamaLisa1]

try laying down on your left side and elevating your feet a bit. Also, drink even MORE water, if you can imagine it! If it continues, it might not hurt to place a call just for some reassurance. Feel better, and best wishes!

[Adamsmama]

Actually it stopped after that one day...it's so wierd! I feel so much better. My right foot is starting to swell a bit which I can't believe is happening so soon! I'm definately going to mention these things to the dr. on Monday! Thanks everyone!

[scheelimama]

I've started getting hard, but not painful, bh contractions during sex, usually when I acheive the big "O". Anyway, I'm not too worried, but I was thinking, like you, that it was a bit early. Glad they died down a bit for you.

[BoobyJuice]

I just had them all day th eother day. I'm 20 wks. This is my third pregnancy and I've never noticed them until the very end and never felt them before - it was just always a hard stomach. I drank and drank and drank and that seemed to help. I know I hadn't been drinking enough in the days leading up to it and I was tired.

I think about all you can do is rest and drink. Dehydration is a huge cause. I really need to make some iced herbal tea - I don't think I can handle any more water.

Just mention it next time you see your dr or midwife. and relax - that makes everything a little better.