Understanding Pregnancy Contractions and Labour Signs
Wondering if your contractions are real labour or just Braxton Hicks? Learn how to spot the signs of true labour, understand the different types of contractions, and know when to go to the hospital.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 24th Aug, 2025
Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but as you near your due date, you may start wondering about labour signs, especially contractions. How do you know if what you're feeling is real labour or just a false alarm? Understanding the difference can help you stay calm and prepared for the big day.
This article will guide you through the types of contractions, signs of true labour, and when to seek medical help.
What Are Contractions?
Contractions are the tightening and relaxing of the uterine muscles, helping your baby move down the birth canal during labour. They can feel like strong menstrual cramps, back pain, or pressure in the pelvic area.
Not all contractions mean labour is starting—some are just practice contractions (Braxton Hicks). Let’s understand the differences.
Braxton Hicks vs. True labour Contractions
1. Braxton Hicks (False Labour)
What they feel like: Mild, irregular tightening in the abdomen.
When they happen: Usually in the third trimester, but can start earlier.
Key differences:
Don’t get stronger or closer together.
Often go away with rest, hydration, or changing positions.
Don’t lead to cervical dilation.
2. True labour Contractions
What they feel like: Strong, rhythmic cramps that start in the lower back and move to the front.
Key signs:
Get progressively stronger and more frequent (every 5 minutes or less).
Last about 30-70 seconds each.
Don’t stop with rest or hydration.
Accompanied by other labour signs (water breaking, mucus plug discharge).
If you’re unsure, timing contractions can help. Use a stopwatch to note how long each lasts and how far apart they are.
Other Signs of Labour
Besides contractions, watch for these signs that labour may be starting:
1. Water Breaking (Rupture of Membranes)
A sudden gush or slow trickle of fluid from the vagina.
Fluid is usually clear or slightly pink (not yellow or green).
Call your doctor immediately if this happens, even if contractions haven’t started.
2. Bloody Show (Mucus Plug Discharge)
A thick, pink, or slightly bloody discharge as the cervix begins to dilate.
Labour may start within hours or days after this happens.
Consult Top Gynaecologists
3. Pelvic Pressure & Lower Back Pain
Increased pressure as the baby moves down.
Persistent back pain that doesn’t ease with rest.
4. Nesting Instinct (Sudden Burst of Energy)
Some women feel an urge to clean or organise before labour begins.
When to Go to the Hospital
Call your doctor or head to the hospital if:
Contractions are 5 minutes apart (or less) for at least an hour.
Your water breaks (even without contractions).
You notice decreased fetal movement.
You have heavy bleeding (more than spotting).
You feel severe pain, dizziness, or fever.
If it’s your first pregnancy, you may have more time, but if you’ve had fast labours before, don’t wait too long!
Tips to Ease Early Labour at Home
If labour is just starting, try these comfort measures:
Stay hydrated – Drink water or electrolyte drinks.
Change positions – Walk, sway, or rest on your side.
Take a warm bath – Helps relax muscles.
Practice breathing techniques – Slow, deep breaths reduce tension.
Eat light snacks – Bananas, toast, or yoghurt for energy.
Avoid heavy meals once active labour starts, as digestion slows.
Final Thoughts
Every pregnancy is different, so trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to call your doctor. Knowing the signs of true labour helps you stay calm and make the best decisions for you and your baby.
If you have concerns about contractions or labour signs, you can consult an expert gynaecologist on Apollo 24|7 for personalised advice.
Need expert guidance?
Book a consultation with an Apollo 24|7 specialist today!
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Dr. Dhwaraga Jeyaraman
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS OG, DGO
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals OMR, Chennai
(50+ Patients)
Dr. Swati Shah
Surgical Oncologist
15 Years • DNB Surgical Oncology, certified Robotic Cancer Surgeon
Ahmedabad
Apollo Hospitals Gandhinagar, Ahmedabad
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Rupali Goyal
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS, DNB (OBGYN), Dip (Usg)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Dr Padmavathi Narahari
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS,MS OG, Fellowship in Advanced Laproscopic Gynaecology
Chennai
Apollo First Med Hospitals P H Road, Chennai
Dr. Abirami S
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
10 Years • MBBS.MS(OBG).FMAS
Chennai
Apollo Women Hospitals Thousand Lights, Chennai
(25+ Patients)
.webp)
