How do you know if you are really in labor?

     How do you know if you are really in Labor? This is one of the most common questions expecting parents have- and there are answers! Here are some of the signs of false labor vs true labor. 

SIGNS OF TRUE LABOR

·        - In the last 24-48 hours you may have experienced indigestion, nausea, and/or loose bowels.

·         -In the last 24-48 hours you may have experienced a burst of energy, or increased feeling that things need to get accomplished and ready.

·        - Contractions are occurring at regular intervals. With your first baby, when contractions are five minutes apart or closer for one hour. If you have had a baby before, when contractions are six to eight minutes apart for one hour.

·         -Time between contractions is becoming shorter.

·        - Discomfort is increasing - you have difficulty walking or talking through contractions.

·        - Contractions are stronger when walking and do not subside when resting.

·        - You see bloody show (vaginal discharge).

·        - You feel back Labor (Pain that may radiate to the abdomen but is concentrated in the back.)

·        - Urination is becoming more frequent

·         -You are be better able to breathe as baby descends

SIGNS OF FALSE LABOR

·         -Contractions may be regular or irregular (come and go) but do NOT get stronger.

·         -Contractions subside or are less frequent when you are resting.

·         -Time between contractions remains the same, or contractions become farther apart.
     -Pain from Contractions may be centered in your lower abdomen only.
     -Between contractions, baby is still as active as he had been.  

           There may also be a time you need to contact your physician or midwife immediately.  Here are some signs to watch for.

                                                SIGNS OF PRE-TERM LABOR                                                     (Labor that begins more than 3 weeks before due date)

·         -Menstrual-like cramps - stomach feels like it is "balling up."

·         -Pelvic pressure.

·         -Low backache.

·         -A new vaginal discharge or significant increase in vaginal discharge, especially if red or pink.

·         -Pains/cramps every 10 minutes or less that do not subside after resting, drinking fluids or urinating.

SIGNS THAT REQUIRE EVALUATION BY A PHYSICIAN OR MIDWIFE

·         -Bag of water breaks. A gush of fluid or a steady trickle that you can't control are both signs that your water has broken. Fluid should be clear. Call immediately if it is yellow, green, or pink tinged.

·         -Constant, severe abdominal pain.

·         -Bright red vaginal bleeding- more like a period.

·         -Continued or severe headache.

·         -Blurred vision or spots before your eyes.

·         -Chills/fever.

·         -Fainting /loss of consciousness.

·        - Severe or continued nausea and/or vomiting.   

           Remember, trust your instincts- it is better to be safe!  If you have any questions, or feel uneasy about anything you are experiencing, ask a member of your care team. We are happy to answer your questions, or refer you to the right person.