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Symptoms To Identify False Labour Pain

Many women have had 'false alarms' just before they actually go into labour. Those sudden cramps or contractions that you feel towards the end of your pregnancy are very common. If it is your first pregnancy, it is hard to distinguish between the symptoms of false labour pain and the real one. But false labour pain during pregnancy is very common. So, if you can identify it, then you can actually save yourself some hurried trips to the hospital.

WHEN TO GO TO THE HOSPITAL WHEN YOU HAVE LABOUR

The symptoms of false labour pain are pretty much like real contractions; that is precisely why it is called 'false' labour. However, if you note some critical points of difference, then you can distinguish real and false labour pain in pregnancy. There can also be some relief from false labour pain in pregnancy if it is really painful.

The standard scientific term for false labour pain is Braxton-Hicks contractions. These are contractions that happen randomly and are usually not as painful as the real contractions. However, for a first-time mother, it is hard to tell the false labour pain from the real one. That is why, you can look take a look at the following points to check if your symptoms match that of false labour pain.

Irregular

Irregular

Braxton-Hicks contractions are usually irregular. You can't count them and they do not keep repeating at regular interval of time.

Can You Talk Through It

Can You Talk Through It

Usually, false labour is associated with weak contractions that feel like menstrual cramps. If you can talk through the pain comfortably, it is probably not labour pain yet.

Increase In Intensity?

Increase In Intensity?

Real labour pain is hard to ignore because it goes on increasing in intensity. But false labour pain will vary in intensity and the pain doesn't usually get unbearable.

Do The Contractions Come From The Back?

Do The Contractions Come From The Back?

A real contraction comes from your back and makes your entire abdomen hard like a stone. False labour will also make your abdomen hard but the pain will begin from anywhere.

Where Is The Pain?

Where Is The Pain?

If you are feeling the pain only in your pelvis, then it is not real labour. Real contractions will make your entire lower abdomen right down to your vagina hurt.

Does It Go Away When You Change Positions?

Does It Go Away When You Change Positions?

It you are experiencing false labour pain, then changing your position, walking, resting or drinking water might make the pain disappear.

Dropping

Dropping

During the last 2 weeks of your pregnancy, the baby 'drops' into your cervix that is now opening up to give birth. This happens especially to first-time mothers. You may feel some false contractions during this time.

Baby Movement

Baby Movement

Some very specific baby movements sometimes feel like contractions because it makes your pregnant belly move up and down. What you perceive as contractions can just be a strong kick from your baby.

Read more about: childbirth prenatal pregnancy