Have you felt your uterus tightening on random occasions? These are Braxton Hicks contractions which are also known as practice contractions because they prepare your body for the actual labor and delivery.

From 32 weeks onwards, these false contractions will become more intensive. You will feel as if strong belts are tightening across your abdomen.

Braxton Hicks vs. true labor
Braxton Hicks are random, painless and often go away when you change positions. True labor, on the other hand, becomes more frequent and painful regardless of physical activity.

When to go to the hospital?
At 32 weeks, the goal of Braxton Hicks is to practice for the grand welcome of your baby, which shouldn’t happen until about eight weeks from now. If you think you are in true labor already (but hopefully not!), call your doctor immediately, and prepare to rush to the hospital.

While you’re still getting the hang of your practice contractions, you can take advantage of the moment by relaxing while you feel the painless tightening. This is also the perfect time to practice deep breathing and Kegel exercises, much like simulating actual labor.

It's recommended to use the contractions to practice a relaxation. It's important to relax your body, instead of tensing it, when you feel your next contractions.