Final answer:
The pregnant belly can feel hard or soft due to the position of the baby and Braxton Hicks contractions.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, the pregnant belly can sometimes feel hard and sometimes feel soft due to a variety of factors. One of the main reasons is the position of the baby. As the pregnancy progresses, the baby may move around and change position within the womb. When the baby is in a more upright or turned position, the belly may feel harder. On the other hand, when the baby is in a lower or more relaxed position, the belly may feel softer.
Another factor is the Braxton Hicks contractions. These are mild, irregular contractions that the uterus may experience throughout pregnancy. They can cause the belly to feel hard or tight for short periods of time and then relax again.
It's important to note that if a pregnant woman experiences persistent or painful contractions, it could be a sign of preterm labor and she should seek medical attention.