Hard abdominal contractions at week 32: Physiological contractions or warning of premature birth?

Specialist Doctor 1 Nguyen Van Bao Tran, Deputy Head of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Phuong Nam Hospital, explains that at 32 weeks of pregnancy, it is quite common to feel the abdomen occasionally tighten. This could be a physiological contraction (also known as Braxton Hicks contraction) - a natural reaction of the uterus when preparing for the actual labor process later. Physiological contractions are considered a normal phenomenon in the last 3 months of pregnancy.

What is the physiological mound?

Physiological contractions usually appear sporadically, irregularly and do not cause changes in the cervix. The uterus will tighten for a few seconds to a minute and then soften, possibly accompanied by a feeling of slight abdominal pressure or slight tension but no obvious pain.

Common characteristics of physiological contractions include: Contractions are not periodic, irregular in time and intensity. Not accompanied by real abdominal pain or severe back pain. No abnormal vaginal discharge, no bleeding, no vaginal discharge. When resting, changing position, drinking more water, contractions often decrease or disappear.

Warning signs of premature labor - need to be hospitalized immediately

Special attention should be paid to unusual contractions, as this could be a sign of preterm labor, a condition that needs to be detected and treated early to protect the fetus. Pregnant women should go to the hospital immediately if they have one of the following signs:

Regular, strong, cyclical contractions, occurring more than twice in 30 minutes or more than four times in one hour even after resting.

Abdominal pain, pain radiating to the back or down to the lower abdomen, pain increasing over time.

Feeling of heaviness in the pelvic area. Vaginal discharge is heavier than usual, the discharge may be watery or mixed with pink or red blood. Fetal movement is weaker or less than usual.

When the above symptoms appear, the doctor will examine the cervix, monitor contractions with obstetric monitoring and assess the condition of the fetus. If there are signs of threatened premature birth, the doctor may prescribe: uterine contraction-reducing drugs, corticosteroids to support fetal lung maturation, helping to increase the baby's chance of survival if born early. Monitor at the hospital until the condition is stable.

Bụng gò cứng ở tuần 32: Dấu hiệu sinh lý hay cảnh báo dọa sinh non? - Ảnh 1. — Pregnant women need to pay attention to monitor contractions and return for check-ups on time.

Home care and prevention

To limit abnormal uterine contractions, pregnant women should get enough rest, avoid heavy work, walk too much or climb stairs continuously. Drink enough water every day (about 2-2.5 liters of water, depending on health conditions). Eat a balanced diet, avoid hypoglycemia or lack of energy. Do not take pain relievers or contraction-relieving drugs without a doctor's prescription. Monitor contractions, vaginal discharge and fetal movement every day. Return for check-ups on time according to the doctor's schedule to assess the condition of the cervix and fetal development.

In summary, not all cases of uterine contractions at 32 weeks of pregnancy are dangerous, but if the contractions are cyclical, accompanied by pain, discharge or blood, or decreased fetal movement, it is a warning sign of premature labor and the pregnant woman needs to be hospitalized early for timely treatment.