True versus false labor
Knowing how to recognize the primary characteristics of true and false labor can help distinguish between the two conditions.
| True labor | False labor |
|---|---|
| Regular contractions | Irregular contractions |
| Back discomfort that spreads to the abdomen | Discomfort that’s localized in the abdomen |
| Progressive cervical dilation and effacement | No cervical change |
| Gradually shortened intervals between contractions | No change or irregular change between contractions |
| Increased intensity of contractions with ambulation | Contractions may be relieved with ambulation |
| Contractions that increase in duration and intensity | Usually no change in contractions |
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