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Are you experiencing contractions and freaking out? You probably have a few weeks or even more than a month to go before your due date. You know for sure that it isn’t time for your baby to come out just yet, but the contractions tell a different story. If you’re experiencing contractions that come and go well before your actual delivery date, chances are it’s prodromal labor (1). You’ve probably heard of the term ‘false labor’ — this is precisely what it is. Although there’s nothing ‘false’ about the pain, the contractions are very real, and you’re probably about to scream. We’ll tell you more about prodromal labor, so you can understand what it is and how you can ease it out a bit.
Prodromal Labor Vs. Active Labor: What’s The Difference?
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Prodromal labor can feel a lot like actual labor, except it isn’t. In the case of prodromal labor, you will experience uterine contraction. However, unlike true labor, these contractions do not result in cervical change, which means; it does not mean you are ready for delivery yet. In the case of prodromal labor, you might notice that the contractions often begin and end at a particular time each day. Sometimes, it takes place at regular intervals. You will see that the contractions caused by prodromal labor usually take place for less than five minutes. It will also stop for an extended interval and then resume again. But in the case of active labor, the contractions do not stop. Instead, it becomes more intense and frequent (2), (3).
It is easy to mistake prodromal labor for actual labor, which is why the former is also known as false labor. Prodromal labor usually begins a few weeks before your due date. However, it is entirely normal to experience prodromal labor a month or more before your delivery date as well (4), (5).
What Causes Prodromal Labor During Pregnancy?
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Prodromal labor occurs a few weeks or a month before actual labor, so this is probably your body’s way of prepping you up for the real deal (6). Although the exact reason behind this is still unknown, there are a few potential contributing causes:
- You’re Scared: Your anxiety can kickstart prodromal labor. You’re nearing the end of your pregnancy, and you’re probably apprehensive and afraid about your due date. This, in turn, can cause a lot of stress, which contributes to prodromal labor (7).
- Baby In Breech Position: The way your baby is positioned can also be a contributing factor. Sometimes, if this is the case, the uterus will attempt to shift the baby’s position (8).
- Physical Issues: Sometimes, if you have an uneven pelvis or any other uterine abnormality, the chances are that this could be a contributing factor to prodromal labor (9).
What To Do To Ease Prodromal Labor?
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Prodromal labor is a common occurrence during pregnancy, so you can’t entirely avoid it. However, you can do a few things to ease the discomfort associated with it:
- You Need To Rest
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Trying to rest might seem like an impossible feat at this point, but it is so vital. Keep all the work that you have pending for later, or ask someone else to help you out with it. Switch to comfortable clothes, and get into bed or your favorite couch. If you feel a contraction coming your way, try not to get up or fight it. Just take a deep breath; these contractions will subside in a bit (10).
- Oxytocin Might Help
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Also referred to as the love hormone, oxytocin is released during certain activities such as intercourse, hugging, breastfeeding, and childbirth. Doctors and nurses also induce oxytocin chemically during delivery, as it helps with the contractions. You can indulge in certain activities to naturally increase oxytocin in your body. Take a warm shower, get a massage, or get intimate with your partner (11).
- Eat Healthy And Stay Hydrated
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Always remember that you’re eating and drinking for two. Not having enough food can tire you out. Being dehydrated doesn’t help either. Make sure you’re having a nutritious, well-balanced meal (12).
As we mentioned above, you need to rest if you have prodromal labor. However, you might find this problematic. If such is the case, you can ask your doctor to provide you with medications to help you. Ensure you prioritize the basics, such as eating the right food, taking rest, and staying hydrated. Have you experienced prodromal labor before? What was your experience like? Tell us in the comments below!
