Symptoms
Wild contractions, or Braxton-Hicks contractions, can occur in the second trimester of pregnancy, starting around 20 weeks gestation, and manifest as a hard abdomen and a pulling sensation. They are often described as mild, but can be uncomfortable and cause pain, according to some sources. Wild contractions occur more often when standing or walking than when lying down.
Causes
They are extended muscle contractions of the uterus that occur up to a maximum of three times per hour at the beginning. They are also called “practice contractions” because they prepare the uterus for birth, and they improve venous blood return. Braxton-Hicks contractions, unlike labor contractions, do not cause the cervix to open. They are named after the British gynecologist John Braxton-Hicks (1825-1897).
Diagnosis
When contractions occur during pregnancy, the pregnant woman should contact the gynecologist or midwife.
