Recognizing False or Real Labor

 
False labor pains result from Braxton Hicks contractions that may begin from as early as the fourth month in the mother's pregnancy. These erratic contractions of the uterus are completely normal and are the mother's body's way of getting ready for the actual labor itself.

Braxton Hicks contractions feel like a tightening of the stomach that comes and goes. As time passes, these contractions do not get closer together. Also, in comparison to true labor, they do not get stronger and more frequent over time.

True labor contractions feel different for every woman and can even vary from pregnancy to pregnancy. Most often, contractions cause a sensation of discomfort or dull aching in the back and lower abdomen area, accompanied by pressure in the pelvic region. The contractions are often described as strong menstrual or diarrheal cramps.

If the mother is trying to figure out whether her contractions are the real deal or false, answer the following questions:

Contraction Questions	False Labor	True Labor
How strong are the contractions?	Contractions are usually weak and don't get stronger. They may start strong and get weaker as well.	Contractions progressively increase in strength.
How often are the contractions?	Contractions are usually erratic and do not become closer together in incidence.	Contractions last about 30 seconds to 1 min and occur at regular intervals. As time progresses, they get closer together.
Do the contractions change with movement?	Walking, resting or changing positions the contractions may stop.	Regardless of changing position, the contractions still continue.
Where is the pain located?	Contractions are usually localized to the front of the abdomen or pelvic region.	Contracts move from the lower back to the front of the abdomen.

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