Labor pains: False Labor vs Early Labor?

Question

Last night I had pretty intense contractions starting in my back and even working its way down to my legs. They do hurt and feel like pretty bad menstrual cramps. However they remained 7-8 minutes apart and while I had 8 in one hour they eventually go away and I fall asleep. This has happened a couple nights in a row. Is this just false labor or is it the beginnings of early labor? I am currently 38+3 weeks and FTM. Baby has been head down. I haven't had any other symptoms of labor such as bloody show etc.

Answer

My doctor says that these are real contractions & that it is your body prepping + practicing for your actual labor. She says that although they can be really uncomfortable & it's a huge letdown when it doesn't progress, that's it's a good sign b/c your body is doing some of the work it will need to do in actual labor. It's all part of the process. Wishing everyone a beautiful delivery!!

Answer

I went into the hospital last night just for that reason! They told me that if your contraction is as soft as your cheek it's early labor, if it's as hard as your nose is medium contractions, if it's as hard as your four head then you're having contractions ! I found out yesterday that I am 1 cm dilated and I'm actually supposed be due July 23! Hopefully this helps you ladies

Answer

This has been happening to me nightly! My husband keeps asking if we should go in, but we live 40 min for the hospital. I don't want to go all that way so late to be sent home. Does this mean if we try some labor inducing tricks they might work?

Answer

I'm going through the exact same thing and would love to hear answers to this as well !

Answer

Prodromal labor. Also called early labor. I had it for 10 days with my first 2 births—on and off for a few days with this one. You're getting ready! Good luck!!

Labor pains: False Labor vs Early Labor?

Let’s Glow

Glow is here for you on your path to pregnancy

25+ million

4.8 stars

20+

Getting Pregnant

Pregnancy

1st Year (Baby & You)

Baby Products