Pickaway Health Services

Pickaway Health Services & Berger Maternity Center
Prenatal Information -- True labor vs. False labor

When am I actually in labor?

True labor

Contractions continue to get stronger whether you are active or not.
Contractions get progressively more uncomfortable. You cannot walk or talk through them.
Your water may break.
If your water breaks come to labor and delivery.
Movement makes your contractions become longer, harder, and stronger.

False labor

Contractions depend on activity. They may increase with walking and decrease with rest.
Contractions may be uncomfortable.
If your water breaks come to labor and delivery.
Your cervix will not change. This must be evaluated by medical staff.
Movement makes your contractions less painful.