Mariah Careys False Alarm – Tell Signs of Real Contractions from Braxton-Hicks False Ones

(abcnews.com/Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)

As Maria Carey experienced Sunday night, false contractions can be absolutely misleading. The 42-year-old singer pregnant with twins, was rushed to the hospital after having strong contractions while celebrating her birthday with husband Nick Cannon.

Braxton Hicks, as they’re most commonly referred to, are the false contractions that occur late in the third-trimester. One way to figure out the difference between real and false contractions is using the 1-5-1 formula. The pattern helps determine if the contractions last for at least one minute, every five minutes or less, and continue on for an hour.

Dr. Sears provides the following tips to alleviate the uncomfortable pain from Braxton Hicks contractions:

Change your activity or position. If you’ve been sitting or laying down, try walking around. If you’re been moving a lot, resting may provide relief. (On the other hand, true labor contractions will progress regardless of what you do.)

Take a warm bath to help your body relax.

Drink water; these contractions are sometimes brought on by dehydration.

Relaxation exercises and slow, deep breathing may help you cope with the discomfort.

According to Vitals.com, Dr. William Sears is a veteran pediatrician with over 40 years of experience and eight children of his own.  Dr. Sears has also published more than 30 books on his “little patients.”

See what patients are saying about Dr. William Sears

Last updated by Margarita at March 28, 2011.

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