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Writer's pictureEvie Moore, MSN, MBA, RN

First-Time Parent's Guide: Understanding Labor Contractions and Labor Onset

Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible journey filled with anticipation, excitement, and, let's face it, a little bit of anxiety. As a first-time parent, you're bound to have a myriad of questions about what to expect during labor and how to recognize the signs when it's time to head to the hospital. In my work I often see this questions asked, "what does labor or contractions feel like? How will I know when labor starts?" With that, one of the most important aspects of labor to understand is contractions and how labor actually begins. In this blog, we will walk you through the basics of labor contractions, how labor typically starts, and how to differentiate between false alarms and the real deal.


Understanding Labor Contractions


Before we dive into the onset of labor, let's get familiar with labor contractions themselves. Contractions are your body's way of preparing for and eventually delivering your baby. Here's what they feel like:


  • Painful Waves or Not: Labor contractions are often described as intense, cramp-like pains or waves of pressure. These sensations start mildly and gradually become more intense as labor progresses. Pain is subjective, meaning each person has their own perception of pain. From mild sensations, to period cramps, to intense "squeezing" from your lower back and around to the front of your lower belly. The more you know how to handle these sensations the more tolerable your labor will be for you. Work with your body and trust it!

  • Regular Timing: True labor contractions come at regular intervals and become closer together as time goes on. You can time them by noting when one contraction starts and ends and how long it is between each one.

  • Location: Contractions typically start in your lower back and radiate towards the front of your abdomen. You may feel them in your lower belly, similar to menstrual cramps.

  • Duration: As labor progresses, contractions last longer, usually between 30 to 60 seconds each.

  • Consistency: Real contractions don't go away with rest or a change in activity. They become more intense and consistent as labor advances.


How Labor Starts


Now, let's explore how labor typically begins:

  • Early Signs: Labor often starts with subtle signs, such as a bloody show (a small amount of blood-tinged mucus discharge), a sensation of your baby dropping lower into your pelvis, and the loss of your mucus plug (a gelatinous blob that seals your cervix).

  • Contractions: As labor progresses, you'll experience regular and increasingly intense contractions, as mentioned earlier. These contractions help your cervix efface (thin out) and dilate (open) to allow the baby to move through the birth canal.

  • Rupture of Membranes: Sometimes, your water breaks before or during labor. This can be a sudden gush or a slow trickle of amniotic fluid. If this happens, contact your healthcare provider immediately.


Differentiating Real Labor from False Alarms


First-time parents often worry about mistaking false alarms for the real thing. Here are some tips to help you differentiate:


1. Contractions: False labor, known as Braxton Hicks contractions, tends to be irregular, less painful, and don't get closer together. They often subside with rest or a change in activity.


2. Other Signs: True labor is usually accompanied by other signs like the bloody show or your water breaking. Pay attention to these additional signals.


3. Timing: Use a timer to track the consistency and frequency of contractions. True labor contractions will follow a regular pattern.


4. Pain Location: Real labor contractions typically start in your lower back and move towards the front. False labor may be felt higher in the abdomen or even in the groin area.


5. Intensity: Real labor contractions become increasingly intense over time, while false labor contractions remain relatively mild.


As a first-time parent, understanding labor contractions and how labor starts is crucial for a smoother birth experience. While every labor is unique, recognizing the signs of real labor and differentiating them from false alarms will help you feel more confident and prepared for the exciting journey ahead. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support throughout your pregnancy and labor. You've got this!


Ready to embark on your journey to a positive birth experience? Contact us now and take the first step towards a comfortable and confident birthing experience today!


Prenatal Coach, Birth & Postpartum Doula, Fort Collins, CO
Prenatal Coach, Birth & Postpartum Doula, Fort Collins, CO

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