Labor Contractions
Contractions are one of the first signs an expectant mother gets when labor is beginning. Contractions come in two forms; Braxton Hicks contractions and the real thing, or true labor contractions. Braxton Hicks contractions are often times mistaken for real contractions, as they are very similar to one another. Braxton Hicks contractions are described as weak, inconsistent, and irregular, as they do not increase in intensity of duration or pain over time, nor do they get closer over time. Real contractions on the other hand, do get closer together over time, they are painful and they last longer as time passes. Real contractions can be timed, while Braxton Hicks contractions can not.
Learn more about Braxton Hicks Contractions here.
Labor contractions begin when your body releases the hormone called oxytocin. Oxytocin stimulates the uterine tightening, and as time continues, true labor begins and the abdomen becomes hard then relaxes repeatedly. Each woman experiences different contractions, however, almost all women describe contractions as a dull ache in the lower back and lower abdomen, along with pressure in the pelvic area. Contractions are known to move in ‘wave-like’ motions, going from top to the bottom of the uterus. True labor contractions are extremely uncomfortable, however, the expectant mother is able to relax in between them.
Timing Labor Contractions
If you think you are passed false labor and are beginning true labor, it’s important you start counting or timing your contractions. The best method of doing this is simply writing it down on a piece of paper. Draw a chart on paper that resembles this:
| Contraction # | Start Time | Duration of Contraction |
| 1. | 3:30pm | 45 seconds |
| 2. | 3:40pm | 45 seconds |
| 3. | 3:45pm | 50 seconds |
| 4. | 3:50pm | 50 seconds |
Having a chart that is ready to go is a great way to stay calm during those initial contractions. Timing your contractions is also a great tool for your health care provider, so try to remember to grab your results before heading to the hospital. This can help doctors and nurses determine what to do next if labor is or is not progressing accordingly. Thankfully there is always a rest period (even if it’s only a few minutes) in between contractions. Both you and your baby need this time to rest in preparation for labor and delivery. When true labor contractions are not in rhythm, but happen on an average of 5-7 minutes apart or less, you should contact your health care provider immediately.
True Labor vs. False Labor
One of the biggest confusions many expectant mothers face is telling the difference between true labor and false labor. The chart below describes the specific characteristics of both true and false labor contractions.
| Characteristic | True Labor | False Labor |
| Frequency | Regular, usually happens 4-6 minutes apart as they become closer together. Lasts 30-70 seconds | Irregular, don’t show signs of consistency or becoming closer together |
| Strength | Consistently increase in strength as time goes on, vaginal pressure likely to increase | Weak, usually do not gain strength as time goes on, can begin strong then weaken as time passes |
| Amount of Pain | Starts in the back and moves forward | Usually only felt in the front of the abdomen |
| Changing Positions | Changing positions has no effect on pain, strength or frequency | Inconsistent, may stop or slow down when you walk, lie down, increase fluids or change positions in any other way |
