Prodromal Labor (False Labor) - Sai Speciality Center
                     Prodromal Labor (False Labor) 
 Causes, Symptoms, & 
Treatment
Best Gynecology Hospital in Bangalore – Sai Speciality Center
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AGENDA
•What is Prodromal Labor?
•Prodromal Labor vs. Real Labor
•Prodromal Labor vs. Braxton Hicks
•Causes of Prodromal Labor
•Symptoms and Feelings of Prodromal Labor
•Managing Prodromal Labor
•When to Call the Doctor
•Key Takeaways About Prodromal Labor
What is Prodromal Labor?
Timing During Pregnancy Difference from Real 
Definition
Labor
Prodromal labor is a type of It typically occurs in the third Unlike real labor, prodromal 
false labor characterized by trimester, often in the final contractions do not increase 
contractions that feel like real weeks before the due date, in strength or frequency and 
labor but do not cause as the body prepares for do not progress to delivery.
cervical dilation or actual labor.
effacement.
Prodromal Labor vs. Real Labor
Prodromal Labor Characteristics Real Labor Characteristics
Contractions maintain the same strength Contractions increase in strength and frequency, 
and regular timing, do not cause cervical cause cervical dilation and effacement, progress 
changes, often stall, and do not result in steadily, and culminate in childbirth.
delivery.
Real: Ends with the baby’s delivery.
Prodromal: Doesn’t lead to birth
Real: Continues to progress until delivery.
Prodromal: Stalls or stops
Real: Cervix dilates and effaces
Prodromal: No dilation or effacement
Real: Contractions come closer and closer together.
Prodromal: May stay regular but doesn’t 
Real: Gets stronger over time.
get closer together
Prodromal: Stays the same intensity
Prodromal Labor vs. Braxton Hicks
● Stronger and more regular contractions, occurring every 5 to 10 
Prodromal Labor minutes and lasting up to a minute.
Contractions
● Contractions mimic real labor but do not increase in intensity or 
lead to cervical dilation.
● Continue despite rest, movement, or hydration changes.
● May cause noticeable discomfort or cramping similar to early 
labor.
Braxton Hicks ● Mild, irregular, and unpredictable contractions.
Contractions ● Often go away with position changes, rest, or hydration.
● Do not follow a consistent pattern or timing.
● Do not cause cervical changes or progress labor.
Causes of Prodromal Labor
Baby's Position Hormonal Changes Uterine Irritability
If the baby is in a breech or less Natural hormonal shifts toward the The uterus can become more 
ideal position, the uterus may end of pregnancy stimulate the sensitive and prone to occasional 
contract to encourage movement, uterus, leading to early contractions as it prepares for the 
sometimes causing prodromal contractions that prepare for labor. upcoming labor process.
labor contractions.
Physical Factors Emotional Triggers Previous Pregnancies
An uneven pelvis or unique uterine Stress, anxiety, or fear related to Women with multiple pregnancies 
shape can increase the likelihood childbirth or personal matters can may experience prodromal labor 
of prodromal contractions as the trigger or worsen prodromal labor more often due to changes and 
body adjusts. contractions. adaptations in the uterus over time.
Symptoms and Feelings of Prodromal Labor
Contraction Duration & 
Abdominal Tightening Cramping and Mild Pain
Timing
A firm or tightening sensation Mild cramping or discomfort that Contractions may last about 60 
across the front of the belly, remains steady and does not seconds and occur every five to 
often described as a consistent increase in intensity over time, ten minutes but do not become 
pressure or hardness. unlike true labor contractions. more frequent or stronger.
Back Pain & Pelvic 
No Cervical Changes
Pressure
A dull ache in the lower back The cervix does not dilate or 
and a feeling of heaviness or efface during prodromal labor, 
pressure in the pelvic area are which distinguishes it from 
common symptoms. active labor and requires a 
medical check for confirmation.
Managing Prodromal Labor
Warm Showers for Relaxation Rest and Hydration
A warm shower helps soothe uterine Resting or napping when tired and drinking 
contractions, relax muscles, and reduce plenty of water keeps your body strong and 
discomfort during prodromal labor. helps manage contraction intensity.
Light Activity Calming Techniques
Gentle activities like slow walking or light Engage in deep breathing, meditation, 
stretching can ease tension and improve listening to music, or reading to reduce stress 
circulation without overexertion. and emotional fatigue during this phase.
When to Call the Doctor
Signs of Labor Call your doctor if contractions become stronger, more frequent, and closer 
Progression together, lasting over a minute and occurring every five minutes or less for 
more than an hour.
Warning Symptoms Seek immediate medical care if you experience constant lower back pain, 
inability to walk or talk through contractions, or notice your water breaking 
(gush or trickle).
Bleeding and Spotting Contact your healthcare provider right away if you see light spotting, lose 
your mucus plug, or have bright red bleeding at any time during late 
pregnancy.
Key Takeaways About Prodromal Labor
Prodromal labor involves early contractions that mimic real labor but do not 
progress to delivery. 
It can be emotionally and physically challenging due to ongoing discomfort and 
uncertainty.
 Recognizing the difference between prodromal and active labor empowers you 
to manage symptoms calmly. 
Always listen to your body, reach out to your healthcare provider when in doubt, 
and prioritize self-care and support as you prepare for your baby’s arrival.
Thank you
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