Question

What are Braxton-Hicks contractions?

Options

• Contractions caused by oxytocin release during the expulsion stage

• Periodic episodes of weak contractions throughout pregnancy, sometimes mistaken for real labour

• Strong contractions that occur only during the first stage of labour

• Rhythmic muscle spasms of the placenta during gestation

Answer 1

Throughout pregnancy, the uterus undergoes periodic episodes of weak contractions called Braxton-Hicks contractions. These are sometimes mistaken for real labour, known as false labour. They are a normal part of pregnancy but do not lead to delivery.