False Alarms in Labor

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

As you get close to your due date, Braxton Hicks contractions tend to get more intense. These can begin to resemble real contractions. If this is your first baby, it can be difficult to know the difference. Many women end up at the hospital at least once, thinking they are in labor.

If you have a false alarm and go to the hospital, you may feel embarrassed when they send you back home. Don't feel embarrassed, you are not alone. As most labor and delivery nurses will tell you, many first time moms do the same thing.

It happened to my first baby. I went to the hospital, four days past my due date. I was certain it was the real thing. I was sent back home after being examined and put on the monitors. As we left the hospital, I felt like an idiot. As it turned out, our daughter was born the next day.

Early signs of labor can be confusing. This is especially true if you are having your first baby. Braxton Hicks contractions and early labor contractions are very similar. Only time will tell if it's the real thing. In real labor, the contractions get longer, stronger and closer together.

If you suspect you are in labor, try to relax. Get a drink of water and then lie down. False labor will generally stop when you rest. Real labor contractions won't go away by changing positions. Over time, they will continue to increase in frequency and intensity.

If you aren't sure, try timing the contractions for an hour. If labor is starting, you will notice a pattern to the contractions. This can vary, so don't be surprised if they don't come in exactly regular intervals.

After you have timed the contractions, call your doctor if you aren't sure. Don't be embarrassed about calling. Your doctor or midwife has seen this before, probably many, many times. If it is during regular office hours, you may be able to go to the office to be checked. This will give you peace of mind and prevent an unnecessary trip to the hospital.

Related Articles:

What Triggers Labor?

Can You Bring on Labor?

Signs of Impending Labor

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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