Pre-contractions

In the last weeks of pregnancy, you may notice that the contractions of your uterus last longer and become more painful. Sometimes you may start to doubt whether labour has already started. We call this preliminary contractions.
With preliminary contractions, your uterus does not contract completely. Pre-contractions do not last as long as dilation contractions. The pauses between contractions are still long and they are often not very regular. After a while they stop again.

Pre-contractions can cause the cervix to shorten and soften, but they do not (or only slightly) dilate the uterus.

CAUSE

Pre-contractions can occur when the baby is descending, the delivery is approaching, a bladder infection or when there is a lot of pressure. It is often a sign to slow down a bit.

TIPS

• Take a nice hot shower or bath. A warm hot water bottle can also help.
•  Warm