You've reached the home stretch of your incredible journey, and your little bundle of joy is just around the corner!
We know you've been through a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions, and now it's time to decipher the real deal! Let's dive into the THREE simple criteria that will help you recognize those labor contractions like a pro!
1. Time: Keep an eye on the clock!
True labor contractions will start out with a bit of space between them but gradually become more predictable. They'll form a rhythmic pattern that you can set your watch to.
Practice labor, on the other hand, will keep you guessing with its irregularity. No pattern, no predictability!
2. Duration: Pay attention to how long those contractions last!
True labor will start as gentle tummy tightness, gradually building up to contractions that can last anywhere from 30 to 70 seconds. Ouch, but yay!
Practice labor will be brief and irregular. It comes and goes like a fleeting breeze.
3. Intensity: Here's where things get interesting!
True labor contractions may sneak up on you at first, almost like a little secret between you and your baby. But don't be fooled; they'll grow stronger and more powerful as time goes on.
Practice labor, on the other hand, likes to play it cool. It doesn't up the intensity game and remains consistent in its strength. It might be uncomfortable but doesn't pack that punch you'll feel with the real deal.
You may also experience prodromal labor. This is when you have all the signs of true labor for several hours before it suddenly stops. This can be days, weeks, or even a month before true labor starts. Think of it as a more intense practice labor. Unfortunately, the only way to tell the difference is if it stops.
Super frustrating, I know firsthand after having them every few nights for a month with my second. It also wore me down as it would typically start at bedtime making sleep harder to come by. Napping and resting when possible helped me through and it will help you too.
Feeling a bit uncertain about your contractions? No worries!
Try changing your position or moving around. If it's practice labor, it should ease up or stop. However, if it's the real thing, it'll keep going no matter how much you dance around!
Drinking fluids, snacking, or taking a refreshing shower can also be telling signs. Practice labor tends to back off or become more irregular with these activities. So, sip that water and nibble on those snacks guilt-free!
And remember sweet mama, it's essential to stay informed but not to obsess over every contraction during early labor. Be sure to check out our post on the Top 5 Things to do in Early Labor for more tips on handling this thrilling moment!
We'd love to hear from you, too! Leave a comment about any other topics you'd like us to cover. Your journey is our joy!
You've got this, superstar!
Comments