“CTX” is a common abbreviation in pregnancy, primarily referring to uterine contractions. These contractions involve the tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles, a natural process throughout pregnancy. Understanding these muscular actions is important to differentiate between normal uterine activity and the onset of labor. This article clarifies what contractions are, how to distinguish their types, how they are monitored, and when to contact a healthcare provider.
Understanding Contractions
Uterine contractions involve the smooth muscles of the uterus tightening and shortening in a coordinated manner. During a contraction, the abdomen typically hardens as the uterus becomes firm, then softens as it relaxes. The sensation can be described as strong menstrual cramps, a wave-like tightness moving downward, or general abdominal squeezing and pressure. While the feeling varies for each individual, some may also experience breathlessness. These tightenings help prepare the uterus and facilitate the baby’s movement towards the birth canal.
Differentiating Contraction Types
Pregnant individuals commonly experience two main types of contractions: Braxton Hicks and true labor.
Braxton Hicks contractions, often called “false labor” or “practice contractions,” are irregular and typically do not increase in intensity, frequency, or duration. They are usually felt in the front of the abdomen and may subside with changes in position, rest, or hydration. These contractions help tone the uterine muscle and soften the cervix, preparing the body for birth without causing cervical dilation.
In contrast, true labor contractions are regular, becoming progressively stronger, longer, and closer together. They do not typically ease with changes in activity or position and often start in the lower back, wrapping around to the front of the abdomen. Their primary purpose is to thin and dilate the cervix, essential for the baby to move down the birth canal. Unlike Braxton Hicks, true labor contractions indicate labor has begun.
Monitoring Contractions During Pregnancy
Healthcare providers employ several methods to monitor uterine contractions, assessing their frequency, duration, and intensity.
One method is manual palpation, where a provider feels the abdomen to gauge the uterus’s firmness during a contraction. External fetal monitoring (EFM), often utilizing a tocodynamometer (Toco), is a common non-invasive technique. A belt with a pressure sensor is placed on the abdomen, detecting and recording uterine activity. This device measures the frequency and duration of contractions, though it does not precisely measure their intensity.
Internal monitoring may be used for more precise intensity measurements, particularly during active labor. This less common method involves placing a catheter or device inside the uterus. Internal monitoring is typically only an option once the amniotic sac has ruptured. These techniques help assess labor progression and ensure the well-being of both the pregnant individual and the baby.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
It is important to know when to contact a healthcare provider regarding contractions. Call if contractions become regular, strong, and consistently closer together, such as following the “5-1-1 rule” (contractions every five minutes, lasting one minute each, for at least one hour).
Other immediate signs that warrant a call include:
Rupture of membranes, often referred to as “water breaking,” whether a sudden gush or a slow trickle.
Any vaginal bleeding, especially if it is more than just spotting or a pinkish “bloody show.”
A significant decrease in the baby’s movements.
Severe pain not relieved by rest or position changes.
Any other unusual or concerning symptoms.