False Baby Birth Alarm – Things You Need to Know
“Is there really something called false baby birth alarm?”– If you are going to be a mom for the first time, this is something you will be really surprised to know. And once you get to hear this term, there will be hundreds of questions bombarding your mind.
Well, worry not ladies, for we have brought everything you need to know about false baby birth alarm. From a general definition and its signs to easing tips, you can know about it all in just 5 minutes! Read on:
What is a False Labour?
Some pregnant women experience false labour pain that is also called Braxton Hicks contractions. These usually happen to help the body prepare for the ‘real’ baby birth. False labour pain can occur many times during the course of pregnancy. However, some women never experience it at all. This is why it can be a tricky deal, making one feel worried and confused every time they get a false baby birth alarm.
Signs of False Labour
There are various signs and symptoms of false labour that one can experience during pregnancy. Common ones include:
- Contractions that are irregular and unpredictable
- Abdominal tightening
- A little or no vaginal discharge that is brownish
- Movement from the baby
False labour usually occurs during night, but then again, they are unpredictable and can occur at any time of the day.
False or True Labour: How to Detect?
At times, it is quite difficult to understand the difference between false or real labour pain. Though false labour pain is not a problem as such, its occurrence can create issues like loss of sleep and pointless trips to the hospital. And, no one would want to visit the hospital often without any reason in a pregnant state. Thus, it is important to know the real difference.
Here are some of the ways you can easily crack the code and decide if you really need to go to doctor or just stay and relax a bit:
| SIGNS | TRUE LABOUR | FALSE LABOUR |
| Frequency of Contractions | Contractions occur at regular intervals and get closer with time | Contractions are irregular and do not get closer |
| Time of Contractions | Last for 30-70 seconds and progressively increase | Contractions can vary in length |
| Intensity of Contractions | The frequency and intensity of contractions increase with time, irrespective of any activity | Contractions may get weaker or stronger depending on the activities or changes in position |
| Center of Contractions | The contractions begin in the lower back and move to the abdomen | The contractions center in the lower abdomen and groin |
| Change in Cervix | The cervix is dilated | There is no dilation of the cervix |
| Vaginal Discharge | Slightly pinkish or bloody discharge due to cervical changes | No discharge or even if it occurs, the colour is brownish |
How To Ease It?
False labour pains can be really irritating and exhausting during the last weeks of pregnancy. This is why many women consult doctors to ease the pain and discomfort. Here are some quick and simple tips to feel better when you experience false labour pain:
- Change your position or do something else.
- Drink enough fluids. It is recommended to drink at least 10 to 12 glasses of water, milk, or juice.
- Rest and relax your body.
- A hot bath can also relive your pain.
- Get a comforting massage.
In case the pain and discomfort do not end after taking up these measures, visit your gynaecologist soon.
The Bottom Line
The pregnancy period brings a mix of emotions in your life. From being too happy in a moment to being totally exhausted the other, you will feel plenty of feelings raging in your heart. Thus, it is important to gather more knowledge about pregnancy and baby birth. You can also check digital platforms like Momspresso and learn more about pregnancy and babies. So, do keep yourself aware to ensure a healthy baby and you!
