Pre-labor

Pre-labor
Synonyms	Prodromal labor, false labor
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Uterine contractions, cervical effacement, back pain, pelvic pressure
Complications	Exhaustion, anxiety
Onset	Late pregnancy
Duration	Hours to days
Types	Braxton Hicks contractions
Causes	Hormonal changes, fetal position
Risks	First-time pregnancy, multiple pregnancies
Diagnosis	Clinical assessment, cervical examination
Differential diagnosis	True labor, Braxton Hicks contractions
Prevention	None
Treatment	Rest, hydration, pain management
Medication	Analgesics, sedatives
Prognosis	Generally resolves with onset of true labor
Frequency	Common in late pregnancy
Deaths	N/A

Pre-labor is the period of time before labor begins during which the body prepares for childbirth. It is also known as the latent phase of labor, early labor, or prodromal labor.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of pre-labor can vary greatly from woman to woman, and from pregnancy to pregnancy. They may include:

• Contractions that are irregular and do not get closer together
• Lower back pain or discomfort
• Pelvic pressure or discomfort
• Increased vaginal discharge
• Changes in the cervix, such as effacement (thinning) and dilation (opening)

Causes

Pre-labor is a normal part of pregnancy and is caused by changes in the body as it prepares for childbirth. These changes may include:

• The baby moving lower into the pelvis
• The cervix starting to efface and dilate
• The release of prostaglandins, hormones that help to soften the cervix and stimulate contractions

Management

Management of pre-labor may include:

• Rest and relaxation
• Hydration and nutrition
• Pain management techniques, such as warm baths, massage, and breathing exercises
• Monitoring of contractions and other signs of labor

See Also

• Labor
• Childbirth
• Pregnancy
• Contractions
• Cervix