False labor (Braxton-Hicks contractions)

The Real Thing (True Labor)

• After timing the contractions, you determine that they are coming consistently and getting closer together.
  
• Each contraction is lasting anywhere from 30-70 seconds getting longer.
• The contractions do not go away even if you change your level of activity.
• Usually with true labor, the contractions have a radiating feeling in your lower back and upper abdomen.
• The intensity of the contractions becomes greater as time progresses.
• During a contraction, you are unable to talk to other people or laugh at a joke.
  

False Start (False Labor)

• The contractions continue to be irregular or have a sporadic pattern.
• There is no consistent length or intensity of contractions and no pattern develops.
• No clear change or increase in the intensity of the contractions.
• May feel the contraction lower in abdomen without the radiation feeling.
• Changing activities effects the contractions.

Remember the list above includes the most common findings between true and false labor, but every woman and baby are different. You may still be unclear whether you are in true labor, and it is always better to call your health care provider for guidance.

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