True Labor vs False Labor / Dr.Zimare

Description

True Labor vs. False Labor 🤰 1. Purpose • True Labor: Your body is preparing for delivery — the contractions cause cervical changes (dilation and effacement). • False Labor: Your body is just practicing — the contractions do not cause cervical change. ⸻ ⏱️ 2. Contraction Pattern Feature True Labor False Labor Regularity Contractions come at regular, predictable intervals Contractions are irregular Duration & Strength Gradually become longer, stronger, and closer together Usually shorter, weaker, and inconsistent Progress Contractions continue despite movement or rest Contractions stop when you change position or rest ⸻ 📍 3. Location of Pain • True Labor: Pain usually starts in the lower back and radiates to the abdomen and thighs. • False Labor: Pain is usually felt in the lower abdomen or groin only. ⸻ 🩺 4. Cervical Changes • True Labor: The cervix dilates and thins (effaces). • False Labor: No change in the cervix. ⸻ 🕓 5. Timing • True Labor: Contractions come every 5 minutes or less, lasting 30–70 seconds. • False Labor: Intervals are uneven, may disappear with activity or hydration. ⸻ 🧘 6. Relief • True Labor: No relief with rest, walking, or hydration. • False Labor: Often goes away after drinking water, changing position, or resting. ⸻ ⚠️ When to Call Your Doctor or Go to the Hospital Seek medical care if: • Contractions are regular (every 5 minutes for an hour) and getting stronger • Your water breaks • You notice vaginal bleeding • Baby’s movement decreases • You experience severe pain or pressure