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Rabu, 18 Maret 2009

Braxton Hicks Symptoms - Changes in the Body of a Pregnant Woman

There are several signs during pregnancy in the form of changes in the pregnant woman's body. In this blog, I take a look at what they are:

Acne

Some women may develop acne during pregnancy, (especially those who were prone to acne during menses, before pregnancy). Paradoxically, some may actually find that their acne disappears during pregnancy!

Bluish or blotchy legs

A condition that disappears after delivery, temporary discoloration or blotchy legs, is observed in a woman's body during pregnancy, (especially true for those who live in colder climates). Hormonal changes are known to cause these signs, during pregnancy.

Braxton Hicks contractions

Sporadic uterine contractions that actually begin at about 6 weeks of pregnancy are called Braxton Hicks contractions.

As the pregnancy progresses, these contractions in the form of Braxton Hicks symptoms could begin to appear more often. However, the contractions tend to remain infrequent, irregular, and essentially without any pain, till the last weeks of pregnancy. The early signs of pre term labor could be confused for Braxton Hicks symptoms, as the two are difficult to differentiate.

The contractions in the form of Braxton Hicks symptoms become intense and frequent in the last few weeks of pregnancy, sometimes called as pre-labor. Sometimes, days or weeks before the due date, these contractions in the form of Braxton Hicks symptoms get rhythmic, relatively close together and occur at regular intervals.

Contractions in the form of Braxton Hicks symptoms can be differentiated from labor contractions. The labor contractions grow consistently longer, stronger, and more frequent, unlike the Braxton Hicks contractions.

If the contractions cause some discomfort and the due date is just a few weeks away, then one could:

Try changing your position or nature of activity. Sometimes walking provides much needed relief. However if the contractions are the real cause of labor pain, then the pain is unlikely to subside.

Have a warm bath, that may help relax the body.

Drink some water, as the contractions could also be brought on by dehydration.

Try relaxation exercises, as this could help cope with the pain, even though it may not stop the contractions.

If contractions become frequent, rhythmic or painful, or other possible signs of pre term labor, as described below, are observed, and if the pregnancy is still not in its 37th week, it is better to seek the help of a qualified medical practitioner.

Abdominal pain, cramping, are signs during pregnancy that are similar to the the occurrence during menstruation, as well as more than four contractions in an hour, even if they don't hurt.

Jessica Harrison is an expert on pregnancy symptoms and would like to help people by sharing her expertise. To know more facts about braxton hicks symptoms, visit: http://www.allaboutpregnancysymptoms.com/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jessica_H

By Jessica H

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