{"id":1221,"date":"2023-01-23T09:34:26","date_gmt":"2023-01-23T09:34:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/jaime-a-mercado-md\/?p=1221"},"modified":"2026-02-09T22:20:33","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T22:20:33","slug":"prodromal-labor-all-you-should-know-about-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/blog\/prodromal-labor-all-you-should-know-about-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Prodromal Labor: All You Should Know About It"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many women worldwide experience prodromal labor. But what is prodromal labor anyway? What are the causes, symptoms, and potential treatment methods you need to be aware of? Look no further for the answers. This expert-reviewed article on prodromal labor will help you understand what causes the so-called &#8220;false labor,&#8221; what you can do about it, and whether there is a cause for concern. Of course, before anything else, it is best to consult with a medical professional at a reliable clinic. If you are located in the area or searching for the best, we recommend consultations at <\/span><a href=\"\/jaime-a-mercado-md\/pregnancy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy Care Center in Plantation, Florida<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So, what is prodromal labor? What about Braxton Hicks? Do these two terms refer to the same thing? Keep on reading to find out.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What Is Prodromal Labor?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prodromal labor is also referred to as &#8220;false labor,&#8221; and it is a labor contraction type that happens when a woman is pregnant. Often, prodromal labor contractions can be mistaken for real labor and can happen a few weeks before giving birth. Interestingly, the word &#8220;prodromal&#8221; is of Greek origin and translates to &#8220;precursor.&#8221; According to the experts, the prodromal labor sensations are close to what active labor can feel like. In short, prodromal labor is the body&#8217;s way of preparing the mother for the real thing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Women experiencing prodromal labor contractions can be in extreme pain. These contractions usually come and go and can last approximately 60 seconds each. Again, active and prodromal labor contractions are very similar. However, the latter is different because prodromal labor does not advance to the next stage. Experiencing prodromal labor does not mean that the patient&#8217;s cervix has started to efface (thin) or dilate (open).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Naturally, experiencing the signs of prodromal labor can be confusing, frustrating, and very painful. Identifying the signs of false labor will help you differentiate between real and &#8220;fake.&#8221; While it is essential to know the signs and symptoms, we also highly recommend seeking out the help of a medical professional. Talk to a trained physician if you are dealing with any or all of the signs of prodromal labor outlined in this article. When in doubt, seek the guidance of a professional at <\/span><a href=\"\/jaime-a-mercado-md\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Broward Complete OB-GYN Wellness Center<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Prodromal Labor vs. Braxton Hicks<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1223\" src=\"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/jaime-a-mercado-md\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks.jpg\" alt=\"Portrait of a Young Pregnant Woman Focusing On Her Breathing While She Has Braxton Hicks Contractions\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/Prodromal-Labor-vs.-Braxton-Hicks.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are many similarities between Braxton Hicks and prodromal labor contractions. Both refer to practice or false contraction types that can happen months or weeks before the actual labor starts. You can also feel both Braxton Hicks and prodromal labor contractions in the front area of the abdomen. However, neither types are powerful enough to induce active labor. Also, neither is accompanied by some of the most typical labor signs, such as blood or water breakage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here is what you need to know about prodromal labor vs. Braxton Hicks:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Braxton Hicks is less painful than prodromal labor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Braxton Hicks is unpredictable, while prodromal labor can last around 60 seconds each.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Braxton Hicks contractions are irregular, while prodromal labor contractions are more consistent.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Braxton Hicks contractions usually go away when the patient changes positions or moves. The same is not true for prodromal labor contractions.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finally, when it comes to prodromal labor vs. Braxton Hicks, the latter usually begins in the second trimester. As for prodromal labor, it typically does not start until the woman reaches the third trimester. Sometimes, the patient is close to the baby&#8217;s due date.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Signs of Prodromal Labor<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Differentiating between real and false labor contractions can be challenging. Here are some usual signs of prodromal labor:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hardening or tightening of the front part of the abdomen.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Contractions usually last up to a minute every time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cramping or pain that does not intensify with time.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The only way to ensure that you are experiencing signs of prodromal labor is to get a cervical check. If you are not dilated, or the dilation has not altered since the last doctor&#8217;s appointment, you may be dealing with pains linked to prodromal labor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How painful is prodromal labor? According to the experts, the pain a patient experiences during false labor is like early labor pain. Some patients describe the pain as a tightening or intense pain in the front area of the abdomen.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The key difference between false and real labor is that prodromal contractions do not advance to the next point. When a woman is experiencing active labor, the contractions tend to become stronger and longer. Patients may find it challenging or impossible to walk or have a conversation during active labor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In most cases, active labor is also accompanied by symptoms such as a bloody show, mucus plug loss, and water breakage.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What Can Cause Prodromal Labor?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The exact cause of prodromal labor remains a mystery. Evidence showing that prodromal labor leads to real labor is non-existent. However, experts claim that prodromal labor contractions can help prepare the uterine muscles and the ligaments for natural childbirth.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are some of the most common reasons why women experience prodromal labor:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress or anxiety<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The baby is changing positions for delivery (for instance, if the unborn is breech)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Physical factors such as a uterine anomaly or an irregular pelvis<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Having at least three (or more) pregnancies in the past<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember, experiencing prodromal labor is common and normal &#8211; it does not mean that the baby is in danger, and it will not harm the unborn. Talk to your medical professional if you are unsure if what you are experiencing is real or false labor. Get <\/span><a href=\"\/jaime-a-mercado-md\/obstetrician-plantation-florida\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">obstetric care in Plantation, Florida<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and make sure that your pregnancy advances smoothly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Can Prodromal Labor Contractions Cause Real Labor?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No, prodromal labor contractions do not directly cause actual labor. However, it can lead to real labor just because it occurs before the due date. As mentioned earlier, false labor contractions help your body prepare for childbirth.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Does Prodromal Labor Last a Long Time?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The false labor&#8217;s exact time frame varies from one person to the next. For most individuals, false labor starts when they are close to 37 weeks or full term. Usually, a single episode of false labor can last up to a few days.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>When Should I Talk to a Doctor?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-1224\" src=\"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/jaime-a-mercado-md\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor.jpg\" alt=\"Doctor Examining Pregnant Woman Holding Stethoscope Near Belly Listening Baby\u2019s Heartbeat in Office. Pregnancy Checkup\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor-200x133.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor-600x400.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor-800x534.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/91\/2023\/01\/When-Should-I-Talk-to-a-Doctor.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are in extreme pain and believe you might be in labor, get immediate medical help. If you are unsure whether you are experiencing real or false labor contractions, it is best to reach out to a healthcare provider at a trusted clinic. False labor tends to be terrifying, especially if you are going to be a first-time parent &#8211; you don&#8217;t know what you can expect! A trained professional will provide guidance and put your mind to rest.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In some cases, seeking out emergency help is necessary. This is true if you:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience lower back pain that does not get better.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience contractions that get <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/health.clevelandclinic.org\/signs-that-labor-is-24-to-48-hours-away\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">longer and stronger<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cannot walk or hold a conversation during contractions.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Experience water breakage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lose the mucus plug or have a bloody show.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Give Us a Call Today<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pregnancy and childbirth can be the most beautiful and challenging times for new parents. We are here to help you ensure that you and your baby are safe and healthy. Book an appointment at Pregnancy Care Center in Plantation, Florida, to get started.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Many women worldwide experience prodromal labor. But what is prodromal labor anyway? What are the causes, symptoms, and potential treatment<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1222,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[20],"tags":[57,61,59,60,58],"class_list":["post-1221","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pregnancy","tag-prodromal-labor","tag-prodromal-labor-contractions","tag-prodromal-labor-vs-braxton-hicks","tag-signs-of-prodromal-labor","tag-what-is-prodromal-labor"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1221","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1221"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1221\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1222"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1221"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1221"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.toplinemd.com\/broward-complete-obgyn-wellness-center\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1221"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}