In the last few weeks of pregnancy, you have most probably started preparing for labor and the arrival of your newborn. The contractions will come, if they have not started yet.
Medically reviewed by Mary Rani Cadiz, MD · Obstetrics and Gynecology
In the last few weeks of pregnancy, you have most probably started preparing for labor and the arrival of your newborn. The contractions will come, if they have not started yet.
How can you tell if you are undergoing true or false labor? Fortunately, you can spot the telltale signs.
A true labor versus false labor chart highlights the differences between the two.
False labor, or Braxton Hicks contractions, typically happen before true labor. It is normal to experience false labor, or irregular uterine contractions.
Braxton Hicks contractions involve intermittent abdominal hardening. Here are some of its key characteristics.
True labor, on the other hand, varies from mother to mother. But there are common denominators.
These include the following:
Some liken the true labor contractions to strong menstrual cramps. Others think of them as strong waves that resemble diarrhea cramps.
When it comes to determining whether your little one is arriving or not, it’s best to monitor and evaluate your symptoms. This true labor versus false labor chart can help you decide if it is time to head to the hospital for delivery.
You may refer to this true labor versus false labor chart to help you figure out if you are undergoing true or false labor.
Braxton Hicks contractions or false labor frequently comes at the heels of a long, stressful day, especially if you have been physically active. The exact reason as to why this happens is unknown but it is usually associated with increased physical activity, when the bladder is full, after sexual activity, and when the woman is dehydrated. Chronic stress causes lasting changes in your body’s vascular system, hormones, and ability to withstand infection. As such, chronic stress can also bring about false labor, even if the baby has not reached full term.
False labor lasts a few hours to a few weeks before true labor starts. You can refer to your true labor versus false labor chart to check your symptoms. It is best to consult your doctor about what to do if you experience false labor in the latter weeks of pregnancy.
If you are experiencing true labor, contact your doctor and head to the hospital. Obstetricians admit women whose cervix is at least 4 cm dilated. The doctor will then check for:
After evaluating all conditions, the doctor will then issue an admitting order sheet, which the mother, her partner or any other relative must keep with him/ her at all times, since labor can kick off any time.
The mother, her partner or any other relative must bring this piece of paper to the emergency room, which is open 24/7. Her obstetrician will be informed of the mother’s presence as soon as possible.
The Four Stages of Labor and Delivery
All you need is a watch or clock to check when it is time to expect your baby. You may also use a timer.
Start counting from the start of the first true labor contraction to the next. Just remember the 4-1-2 rule, that tells you:
At this point, active labor begins. Your baby is on his or her way.
If you are feeling contractions, monitor them closely and refer to your true labor versus false labor chart. When the right time has finally come, you can grab your maternity bag, go to the hospital, and get ready to welcome your newborn with the confidence.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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