Often, pregnant women think they are experiencing actual labor and immediately go to the hospital only to find that it was a false alarm and they were actually experiencing false labor.
So how can you tell the difference? Here are a few clues:
True Labor |
False Labor |
Contractions* occur in a regular pattern |
Contractions have no pattern |
Contractions get stronger and stronger |
Intensity of the contractions does not change |
Contractions get closer and closer |
Spacing between contractions does not change |
Discomfort in back and/or lower abdomen |
Discomfort usually occurs in the lower abdomen |
Contractions do not stop with walking |
Contractions usually disappear with walking |
Cervix dilates (opens up) |
Cervix does not dilate |
*True labor contractions will be 2-3 minutes apart for an hour or more.
Dealing with false labor. If you are experiencing false labor, there are a few methods to use to ease the discomfort, such as:
It’s possible you still won’t be sure if you’re experiencing true labor even after becoming familiar with the signs of labor. In some cases, women have painful contractions for days with no cervical changes. Other pregnant women may feel only a backache or a little pressure.
If you are bleeding or are fewer than 36 weeks pregnant and experiencing consistent contractions, you should visit your doctor immediately or call 9-1-1 to be taken to the nearest hospital.