False labor and what you need to know

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was written by Doctor Bui Thi Thu - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Vinmec Hai Phong International General Hospital
The signs of false labor make pregnant women often confused and worry excessively about the safety of the fetus, especially for mothers who are pregnant for the first time. Understanding false labor will help mothers stay calm and overcome the pain in the most gentle way.

1. What is false labor?

False labor is when you experience Braxton Hicks contractions. But unlike true labor, false labor does not cause dilation of the cervix nor does it last with a steady intensity and frequency. Not all women experience false labor.

2. Signs of false labor?

Irregular and unpredictable contractions (eg, 10-minute, 6-minute, 8-minute intervals, etc.) are signs of false labor.

There are no other symptoms of true labor such as the pain coming on and on, the water breaks,... The contractions are felt like menstrual cramps, cramping in the abdomen and pelvis. . Changes in activity or body position cause contractions to slow down or stop.

3. How to distinguish false labor and real labor?

Not all pregnant women can distinguish between false labor and true labor. To find out if you're preparing or just experiencing regular stomach cramps, ask yourself the following questions and answer them.

3.1 How often does each spasm occur?

False labor: Contractions occur with erratic frequency and varying duration. True labor: Contractions are regular and last about 30-70 seconds. As time goes on, the contractions get closer together with increasing intensity.

3.2 Does the pain improve when you move?

False labor: Contractions may stop when you walk or rest, or may even stop if you change positions. True labor: Contractions continue no matter how you move or change positions, even when you try to rest.

3.3 Where do you feel pain?

False labor: You usually feel it only in the front of your abdomen or pelvis. True labor: Contractions are more intense and may begin in the lower back and move to the front of the abdomen. Or they can start in your belly and move to your back.

4. What should be done to relieve discomfort when experiencing false labor pains?

In fact, you don't need to worry too much because false labor is a normal way for your body to adapt and get ready for real labor. If it's too uncomfortable try a few of the following:
Going for a walk, changing position or getting up and moving will help the false labor contractions stop. If you're already active, sleep or rest for a while. Relax with a warm bath or listen to music. Massage will help you feel more comfortable and relaxed.

5. When do you need to seek medical help?

If you're not sure if your signs of labor are fake or real, see your doctor. In particular, in the following cases, you need to see a doctor immediately, because it will affect your health and your unborn baby:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding. Amniotic fluid breaks and leaks continuously. Strong contractions every 5 minutes for an hour. Intense painful contractions that you can't stand. Noticeable unusual movements of the baby in the womb. Any symptoms of true labor contractions if the pregnancy is not yet 37 weeks. Not every woman can recognize unusual pain in false labor, even for mothers who have given birth before. With the desire to bring the most special and preferential care to mothers and babies, Vinmec General Hospital has a maternity package package, pregnant mothers have a team of qualified and experienced doctors and nurses. The experimenter will advise, monitor and take care during pregnancy until delivery. And even after giving birth, mother and baby will rest and relax in a comfortable hospital room with dedicated and professional care.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.