Prodromal Labor

Prodromal labor is a type of false labor contraction. These contractions are often mistaken for actual labor because they happen in the last few weeks of pregnancy. Prodromal labor is like your body’s “warm up” for true labor contractions.

Prodromal labor contractions can be mildly painful, come every five minutes and last 60 seconds each time. But prodromal labor never advances beyond this point. It doesn’t mean your cervix is dilating (opening) or that you’re going into true labor.

It can be both frustrating and confusing to experience false labor contractions. Knowing how to spot prodromal labor could help ease your worries.

What causes prodromal labor?

No one is entirely sure what causes prodromal labor. Healthcare providers know that false labor contractions can help your uterine muscles and ligaments prepare for actual labor. There’s no evidence that prodromal labor causes labor to begin or helps you dilate and efface (thin) faster.

Prodromal labor is completely normal and harmless. If you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is true labor, your healthcare provider can help. They may ask you to time your contractions or describe your pain. Other times, they’ll ask you to come in so they can check your cervix. If there’s no sign of dilation, you’re probably feeling false labor.

What are the symptoms?

Signs of prodromal labor include:

• Tightening or hardening in the front of your belly
• Pain or cramping that doesn’t get worse over time
• Contractions that last up to one minute each
• Contractions that occur as soon as five minutes apart (and never closer)

During true labor, contractions are longer, stronger and closer together. You’re likely in true labor if your contractions are coming less than five minutes apart, they last longer than one minute each and this happens for over one hour straight. Active labor can bring other signs of labor, like your water breaking or having a bloody show.

The only way to tell for sure is with a cervical check. If you aren’t dilated, it’s probably prodromal labor.

How do you stop prodromal labor?

You can’t really stop it. But there are ways to help you cope with the discomfort.

Here are some things you can do:

• Get more rest
• Change positions (use a pillow for support under your belly or lie on your side)
• Drink lots of water and eat small snacks
• Take a warm bath or shower
• Try to relax with yoga, breathing exercises or meditation

Can it lead to real labor?

Prodromal labor happens before true labor but doesn’t cause it to start. It’s your body’s way of gearing up for active labor and delivery. Prodromal labor may go away on its own without progressing to active labor.

How long does prodromal labor last?

There’s no set time for how long prodromal labor lasts. Labor varies from person to person and from pregnancy to pregnancy. For most people, prodromal labor begins once you’re close to full term (37 weeks). One episode of prodromal labor can last up to several days at a time.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

It can be hard to tell prodromal labor contractions from true labor. False labor can be scary if you don’t know what to expect. Your healthcare provider can reassure you that what you’re feeling is normal and not a cause for worry.

Call your healthcare provider right away if your contractions are accompanied by vaginal bleeding or you notice your baby isn’t moving like normal.