Week 34: Your body prepares for labor.

lovely pregnant womanYou’ve no doubt been mentally preparing yourself for your new baby as your due date nears. Your body is warming up in preparation, too—through periods of uterine contractions called Braxton-Hicks contractions.

It’s believed that these “practice” contractions help the cervix become ready for labor. Braxton-Hicks contractions occur irregularly and vary in length and intensity.

These “false labor” contractions have no regular pattern. True labor contractions may start out irregular in length and intensity, but become regular and stronger over time.

Contact your doctor or midwife if your contractions continue for more than one hour, especially if you are fewer than 37 weeks pregnant.

Learn more about false labor.

Three ways to keep your baby safe

We've assembled three simple strategies to help protect your baby during your pregnancy. Fish, feline and fasten your seatbelt!

Expecting Multiples?

Many twins are born early - commonly around the 35th week. Read about twins and premature birth.

Email Sign-Up

Signup for our FREE newsletter to get developmental updates about your pregnancy, newborn or child.

Collapse

What We're Saying On Facebook

Sponsors