False Labor or Actual labor? How to Spot the Difference

Hospital bag packed? Car seat installed? Crib assembled? You’ve ticked off every item on your checklist. You’re as ready as you can be, and you’ve prepared your home for your baby’s arrival. Those final days are a time of anticipation or even anxiety if you don’t know what to expect. Every twinge and every pain might leave you wondering if you’re in labor, especially if you’re a first-time mom. But as you may or may not know, false labor is very real! So, how can you tell the difference between this and actual labor? Keep reading to find out!

5 signs of labor to look for as you count down to the big day.

1. Lightening

This is one of the first signs that labor may be starting soon. In the final weeks before birth, you’ll feel the baby settle, usually, head down unless it’s in the breech position (bottom first instead of head first). You’ll feel like you’re finally able to breathe more easily as your lungs have more space. But you may have to pee more frequently or feel more pressure down below.

2. Mucus plug

The mucus plug acts as an additional protective barrier between the outside world and your baby. The body sheds the mucus plug when labor begins to make way for the baby to come through the birth canal.

3. Contractions

True labor contractions are the most obvious sign of labor. They feel intense pressure that starts in your back and moves to your lower abdomen. Some women describe them as having the most painful period cramps ever. And, unlike false labor pains, they won’t go away when you walk or change positions. They will gradually increase in frequency and intensity. Your doctor or midwife may ask you to time them and head to the hospital when they reach a specific interval.

4. Water breaks

When your water breaks, it will likely be much less dramatic than what you see in the movies. Often it’s just a trickle, or you might even mistake it for urine. Sometimes your water may not even break until after you’ve been admitted to the hospital.

5. Effacement and dilation of the cervix

In other words, this last sign of labor is the thinning of cervical tissue and the opening of the cervix in preparation for the baby’s arrival. Once you get to the hospital, the doctor or midwife will check to see how dilated you are by performing a vaginal exam. You won’t feel ready to push until you’re at 10 cm of dilation.

Actual labor vs. false labor

False labor, on the other hand, doesn’t check any of the above boxes. False labor contractions, also known as Braxton Hicks contractions, feel like mild menstrual cramps or hardening of the stomach muscles. What’s the main difference from actual labor? There’s no progression; these contractions don’t become more frequent or more intense with time.

Braxton Hicks contractions often occur more frequently in the afternoon and evening, especially after physical activity. But don’t worry too much as they will usually stop if you change your position. Try lying down, going for a walk, or taking a bath.

Typically, Braxton Hicks begins as early as the second trimester. However, if you experience any labor signs before 37 weeks, doctors recommend calling your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Scientists still don’t know what exactly causes labor to begin, so if you’re at all unsure about what you’re feeling, then it’s best to consult your doctor or midwife.

Anxious about giving birth?

If you are stressed out or anxious about giving birth, it’s time to take a deep breath. Science has proven that our babies are able to perceive our moods and emotions from inside our bellies. Any stress or negativity you may feel affects them as well. Beginning.com features carefully crafted audio sessions to help you unwind and boost your well-being to create the best environment for your baby. Listen to 9 Months and The Moment for the most relaxing and mindful birthing experience ever!