False labor, also known as Braxton-Hicks or practice contractions, is a tightening of the uterus muscles that can occur as early as six weeks into pregnancy. It can be distressing for first-time mothers, but there are signs to differentiate it from real labor. Factors such as hydration, walking, and lying on the left side can minimize the frequency and pain of false labor. Seeking medical attention is necessary if the pains cause great discomfort or mimic real labor. Doctors can provide anti-anxiety medication or sleep aids if false labor becomes a recurring problem.
Also known as Braxton-Hicks or practice contractions, false labor is a tightening of the muscles of the uterus. False labor contractions can start as early as six weeks of pregnancy, although it is more common for contractions to start during the second or third trimester. Not all expectant mothers will experience false labor during a pregnancy.
The occurrence of false labor can be distressing for first-time mothers. Fortunately, there are several signs and symptoms that can help identify the differences between real labor and false labor. In most cases, your doctor will review these signs with the expectant mother, which can help ease some of the naturally occurring concerns if and when false labor contractions occur.
When it comes to labor and false labor, one important sign has to do with the frequency and severity of the contractions. When there is an irregular pattern in the onset of pains, there is an excellent chance of false labor contractions occurring. Also, false labor signs don’t seem to bring any additional pain. In contrast, true labor is characterized by the establishment of a regular pattern of contractions and an increase in the level of pain as the time of delivery approaches.
There are several factors that can help minimize the frequency and pain experienced with false labor. Walking can sometimes help quell false labor contractions. Lying on your left side can also have the same effect for some women. Because a full bladder can trigger contractions, sometimes you get relief from the contractions just by urinating. Proper hydration is important when it comes to managing the incidence of false labor pains, as it’s more common to experience contractions when the body is mildly dehydrated.
As your pregnancy nears term, it’s not unusual for false labor pains to become more pronounced. Some women experience pain that is practically identical to that of real labor, which makes it very difficult to tell the difference. There should be no hesitation in seeking medical attention when the pains cause great discomfort or when they strongly mimic real labor. If the treating physician determines that the woman is not experiencing true labor, medications can often be given to ease the contractions and allow the woman to enjoy a respite from the false labor.
It’s not unusual for doctors to provide expectant mothers with anti-anxiety medication or some type of sleep aid when false labor becomes a recurring problem. A qualified doctor can determine which types of medications will provide the most relief while posing no threat to your pregnancy.
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