Prelabor vs. True Labor
How to tell the difference and when to stay calm
essential
Prelabor (Often Called 'False Labor')
Prelabor is the body's dress rehearsal. The cervix is ripening and changing, but active dilation has not yet begun. It can last hours or days, especially for a first-time parent.
True Labor
True labor means the cervix is actively dilating and effacing. Contractions will not stop regardless of what the birthing person does.
When in Doubt
Call the caregiver. Describe the pattern, how far apart contractions are, how long they last, and whether they are getting stronger. A phone call can save a trip to the hospital or confirm that labor is real.