How to Recognize True Labor
It can be a real challenge to know if you are in true labor. However, there are quite a few things that may happen that can assure you true labor is beginning. Despite common theory, your amniotic sac (bag of waters) does not have to break first before you are considered to be in labor. The following steps can help you determine if you should head to the hospital.
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Instructions
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Contractions become regular. In real labor, your contractions will generally establish a pattern. Contractions may start out at 10 minutes apart or they may start at 5 minutes apart. However, with the exception of a few irregularities, they will keep a consistent pattern.
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Contractions will get longer and stronger. When you first begin labor, your contractions may be every 7 minutes and last 15 to 30 seconds. As labor continues, the contractions will become closer together and last longer. For instance, they may be every 5 minutes and last 30 to 45 seconds.
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Walking or squatting will increase the intensity of the contractions. If you are having contractions and you are unsure whether it is real labor or not, go for a walk. Walking will generally make the contractions stronger.
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Sleeping will not stop the contractions. Most women say that lying down generally makes their contractions worse. So, if you are unsure if you are in labor, try to lie down, especially if it is during the night. If the contractions continue, it is most likely real labor.
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There are other ways to tell if you are in labor, but these will be done by your doctor or midwife. They will check for cervical effacement and dilation, and engagement or change of station.
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Tips & Warnings
If your labor begins during the night, try and get some rest in between the contractions. You will need your energy when you transition into the active phase.
If you have a doula, notify her of the changes.
If you think that your membranes have ruptured, you should call your doctor or midwife. They will want to know how the fluid looks (if it is clear or colored), how it smells and approximately how much you lost. They may want you to come into the hospital and get checked.
Do not wait until your membranes have ruptured to go to the hospital if you are in intense pain. Sometimes, the membranes will not rupture until you are in transition or even pushing.
