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As your pregnancy progresses, you may begin to notice a tightness in your uterus referred to as a Braxton Hicks contraction. These contractions usually last for about 2 minutes and occur during the last few months before delivery.

Braxton Hicks contractions actually do serve a purpose. They are commonly called "practice contractions" because they help your uterus prepare for the contractions it will experience during labor. Without Braxton Hicks contractions, your labor contractions would be longer and more painful. Braxton Hicks contractions also help to soften the cervix. To learn the difference between Braxton Hicks and labor contractions click here

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