Braxton Hicks contractions
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These mild, irregular tightenings are there from early pregnancy, but you'll usually only start to feel them late in the second trimester.
These tightenings force blood from uterine veins so they can refill with fresh blood. They also help stretch out the lower part of the uterus ready for labour. Sex or an orgasm may trigger them, but don't panic: you're not going into labour yet.
Anne Richley, midwife.
By Anne Richley, midwife
Where to next?
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Common pregnancy worries
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'I had morning sickness morning, noon and night'
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Common pregnancy worries: 2nd trimester
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Finding out the sex of your baby
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Flying when pregnant
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Monitoring your baby in the womb
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Sex during pregnancy
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Sign up for our free pregnancy newsletter
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When to tell people you're pregnant
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When your baby hiccups in the womb
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Your pregnancy week-by-week: Week 16


