The timing of the contractions is a big component for recognizing the differences between true and false labor. Other differences you might notice include the contractions changing when you change positions. Here’s how to tell the difference:
It’s false labor if…
- Contractions don’t come regularly and they don’t get closer together.
- They stop with walking or resting or with changes in position.
- Usually, the pain is only felt in the front.
It’s true labor if…
- Contractions come and get closer together over time.
- They continue regardless of movement or resting.
- They usually start in the back and move to the front.