BRAXTON HICKS v LABOUR CONTRACTIONS CONTRACTIONS

Contractions are irregular

Contractions are inconsistent

Contractions vary in intensity

They’re felt over the belly

Can be relieved by walking or taking a warm bath

There is no show

The waters have not broken

Contractions are regular

Contractions increase in frequency

Contractions gradually increase in intensity

They’re primarily in the back

They are not relieved by a bath

A show is usually present

The waters may have broken