Prodromal Labor

A. What it is

Prodromal labor, also known as false labor, is a series of contractions that can occur in the weeks before you go into active labor. It's your body's way of preparing for true labor, and can be similar to active labor contractions. However, prodromal labor doesn't mean that your cervix has started to dilate or that labor is coming. It is your body getting ready for the big day.

Here are some characteristics of prodromal labor:

• Contractions: Contractions can be painful, come every five minutes, and last 60 seconds each. They can feel like real labor, but they don't get stronger or make the cervix dilate.

• Pattern: Prodromal labor contractions tend to follow a pattern.

• Duration: Prodromal labor can come and go over a period of days or even weeks.

• Other symptoms: You might also experience menstrual-like backaches, cramps, tightening, or tingling in the front of your abdomen.

Prodromal labor is different from Braxton Hicks contractions, which can happen throughout pregnancy but are usually not painful and don't follow a pattern.

To manage prodromal labor, you can try resting, staying hydrated, and using comfort measures like warm baths and massage.

You should call your doctor or go to the hospital if you experience any of the following:

• Contractions that last longer, become more painful, come every 5 minutes or less, and happen for more than an hour

• Your water breaks

• Pink, red, or brown discharge appears

• You have a lot of vaginal bleeding

When you’re pregnant and get contractions, it means the muscles of your uterus are tightening and releasing. The contractions help widen (dilate) your cervix to help your baby journey through the birth canal. All that usually signals that you’re about to go into labor.

But sometimes contractions don’t make your cervix change the way it would if your labor had started for real. Your medical practitioner may describe this as uterine contractions without cervical change. Some call this “prodromal labor” (prodromal means early signs). Others refer to it as “false labor.” But your medical practitioner will avoid both terms, because they consider them imprecise and/or misleading.

Prodromal Labor vs. True Labor

Unlike actual labor, prodromal labor doesn’t get you and your baby ready for delivery. Doctors don’t know what causes them. They can happen at different times in your pregnancy. Your contractions may be regular and might remind you of menstrual cramps. They shouldn’t get worse over time and will go away. Lying down or drinking water may help you stay comfortable until they pass.

Braxton-Hicks contractions are another type that won’t change your cervix. They may come on less regularly than prodromal labor. You may have Braxton-Hicks contractions in the evening and/or after you’ve moved a lot. You might get one or two contractions an hour. They are more distinct and often may feel like tightening in one part of your womb. But you might not feel anything, though others will feel more. Shifting your body or walking can help end the contractions.

B. What it feels like

Prodromal labor, also known as false labor, can feel like mild, moderate, or intense pain in the abdomen, lower back, or pelvis. It can also feel like menstrual cramps, though it can also feel like the real thing

C. How long it lasts

prodromal labor can last from a few hours to several days or even a few weeks, your contractions can range from mild to moderate, 30-45 seconds, they can be irregular and 5-20 mins apart, you could even feel "off" and achy

D. How to cope

Prodromal labor, also known as false labor, can be physically and emotionally challenging. Here are some ways to cope:

• Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water or sports drinks to prevent dehydration, which can make contractions worse

• Eat well: Eat small, nutritious meals to maintain your energy levels

• Rest: Take breaks, nap when you can, and alternate between walking and resting

• Relax: Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga

• Take a bath: A warm bath can help relax tense muscles

• Change positions: Try different positions to relieve pressure and encourage your baby to move into a better position

• Try light exercise: A short walk can encourage your baby to move into a better position

• Try gentle massage: Massage can help reduce anxiety and make pain easier to bear

• Try compresses: Hot or cold compresses applied to painful areas can help reduce pain

• Talk to someone: Talk to a friend or family member, or contact your care team if you're unsure about what's happening

• Journal: Writing a journal entry can help you cope

• Try acupressure: Some women prefer acupressure during contractions

Most important, it is important to listen to your body and call your prenatal health care provider or head to the hospital if you think you might be in labor.