Labor contractions are the primary sign that the baby is on its way for a pregnant woman. However, not all contractions are the same. It is important to know and understand the different types of contractions and identify when it is time to head to the hospital. In this article, we will discuss how to recognize labor contractions.

What are contractions?
Contractions are when the uterus muscles tighten and release, which help move the baby down to get ready for delivery. During early pregnancy, women may experience Braxton Hicks contractions, which are false contractions that are irregular.

How to distinguish true labor contractions
True labor contractions increase with intensity, frequency and duration. The cervix starts to dilate and become thinner and softer, which is known as effacement. Here are some tips to differentiate true labor contractions from other types of contractions:

Timing
True labor contractions occur at regular intervals. Time the contractions from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next contraction. The time taken should not decrease over time. Generally, true labor contractions occur every 5 to 10 minutes and last for 30 to 60 seconds.

Location
True labor contractions typically start in the lower back and radiate around to the front of the abdomen. The pain begins to get stronger and more intense, and you may feel like you need to bear down or brace yourself.

Intensity
As the contractions become stronger, you will need to focus on the pain and breathing techniques to manage it. You may also experience frequent urination and bowel movements.

Progression
True labor contractions progress over time. The contractions become closer and stronger, and the cervix starts to dilate. Once the cervix has dilated to 10 cm, it is time to push.

If you are unsure whether you are experiencing true labor contractions, contact your healthcare provider. They will be able to assess the contractions and determine whether it is time to go to the hospital or not.

Pre-labor contractions
Before true labor contractions, some pregnant women may experience pre-labor contractions. These are also known as Braxton Hicks contractions. They are not a sign of active labor and can occur anytime during pregnancy. Unlike true labor contractions, Braxton Hicks are irregular and do not increase in intensity, frequency or duration. They may be uncomfortable, but they typically subside with a change in position, a warm bath, or rest.

Conclusion
Labor can be an intimidating time for first-time moms, but knowing what to expect can help ease some of the stress. Remember to time your contractions, note the location and intensity and pay attention to their progression. Also, it is essential to stay in contact with your healthcare provider. Recognizing labor contractions is key to determining whether it is time to head to the hospital and welcome your new arrival.

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