What exactly are Braxton Hicks contractions? Confused in Minnesota

Dear Abortion Advice:

I was thinking of getting an abortion but decided to stay pregnant.  I am only in my second trimester but I keep getting these contractions.  A friend said they are probably Braxton Hicks contractions.  How do I know if I should call my doctor?

Confused in Minnesota

Dear Confused:

Good question.  Since we can’t offer medical advice, I would suggest going to see your doctor to figure out what is going on.  But while you are sitting in their office with nothing to do, you could follow this link to the Mayo Clinic’s website.  So glad you decided to stay pregnant!

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20047732