False Contractions
Have you ever experienced it? Perhaps you have. It is called Braxton Hicks. Braxton Hicks contractions are sporadic contractions and relaxation of the uterine muscle. Sometimes, they are referred to as prodromal or “false labor" pains. It is believed they start around 6 weeks gestation but usually are not felt until the second or third trimester of the pregnancy. Braxton Hicks contractions are the body's way of preparing for true labor, but they do not indicate that labor has begun or is going to start.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470546/
Here in Papilio Natural Birth Center, we received reports that some pregnant mommies experienced it under 32 gestational weeks.
Most of those who experienced it are newly moms or mothers with history of cesarean, thus they haven't experienced it yet.
Or, some of them have dyspepsia, usually happen to mothers who are not pregnant in a period of time.
Before we go any further, let's open the holy Qur'an, surah Al A'raf verse 189 :
"It is He who created you from one soul and created from it its mate that he might dwell in security with her. And when he covers her, she carries a light burden and continues therein. And when it becomes heavy, they both invoke Allah, their Lord, 'If You should give us a good [child], we will surely be among the grateful.'"
Although it felt discomfort, but the contractions were experienced by many women.
The first Braxton Hicks in human history has been experienced by Mother Eve (Wife of the Prophet Adam 'alayhissalam).
Ca you imagine, the first woman to experience pregnancy and childbirth? Both of them certainly did not know what is in her uterus that expanded from day to day and what the labor contractions are felt like.
Are they afraid? Certainly.
But even in fear and unknowingly of every pain experienced, Adam and Eve asked Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala a pious child.
This is how Eve managed the pain of childbirth by direct communication to Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala.
It was a moment where women were very close to the Creator, with the pain they suffered. between life and death, it was the moment where the du’a is very mustajabah. This is Khusu 'Birth of Eve..
So, what is exactly pregnant mommies going through?
During a contraction, the stomach becomes hard. Between contractions, the uterus will relax and the stomach is soften..
The experience is different in each woman, and it may differ from one pregnancy to the next one.
But Labor Contraction usually causes discomfort or dull pain in the back and the lower abdomen, along with the pressure in the pelvic.
Contraction move like the wave, from the top of the uterus to down the abdomen. Some women describe contraction as a strong menstrual cramps.
Unlike false contractions or Braxton Hicks, the real labor contractions do not stop when you change your positions or relax.
Although it may be uncomfortable, you will still be able to relax between contractions (unless you use pitocin induction).
Below is a comparison to know the difference between False Contractions and Real Contractions?
1.How often does it appear: "False contractions” are often irregular and rare. "Real contractions” come periodically and last around 30-70 seconds. As time continue, the duration between contractions is shorten and more intense.
2.Does it dissappear when we move? "False contractions” usually stop when the mother walks or rests, or may even stop if she change her positions. "The Real contraction” however will continue despite the efforts the mother did by walking or changing positions.
3.How strong the contractions are? "False contractions” are usually weak and didn't become stronger. Or they may be strong at first and then become weak. "The Real contraction” continues more intense and powerful.
4.Where do you feel the contractions? "False contractions” are usually only felt in front of the abdomen or the pelvic. "The Real contraction” usually start in the lower back and move to the front abdomen.
So, what is your experience during labor contractions? How do you feel and what kind of preparation that you did in managing it?
Don’t forget to do routine check up to your health care provider to make sure you have a healthy pregnancy.
Last but not least, to all our dearest pregnant mommies, enjoy the labor process as a sacred moment to worship and do your best effort to gain good deeds from Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala
Source:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470546/
