Contraction - Muscles of the utrus tighen and relax.
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True Labor Contractions occur at regular intervals, last 30 to 60 seconds. Contractions get gradually closer together and stronger. Contractions may be felt in your back and lower abdomen. Contractions continue or increase with walking. There is increasing discomfort. Your cervix softens, shortens, and dilates. |
False Labor Contractions usually not regular. Contractions do not get closer together; may stop after an hour or so. Contractions not usually felt in your back Contractions stop with walking. Discomfort does not increase. Your cervix does not change. |
What To Do If you think you are in labor: Rest, if possible, on your side. Time your contractions with a watch. (If one contraction starts at 9:10 and the next starts at 9:16, then they are 6 minutes apart) Eat or drink only light foods. Come to the hospital when your contractions are 5 to 6 minutes apart. |
Show - Pink slightly bloody or mycous discharge from vagina.
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True Labor Show is present in small to moderate amount due to cervical changes. |
False Labor Show is not present. |
What To Do Tell your doctor or clinic. Wear a pad if you your wish. |
Rupture of Membranes - A trickle or gush of fluid from the vagina after the sac around the baby breaks; the fluid is usually clear, but may be green or white.
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True Labor Bag of waters may break before you feel contractions. Fluid usually continues to leak, especially during a contraction, which may become stronger. |
False Labor Bag of water does not break. |
What To Do If you think your water has broken, call your doctor or healthcare provider right away and go to the hospital. Do not take a bath or put anything into your vagina. Wear a pad, if necessary, until you arrive at the hospital. |