what is prodromal labor

Prodromal labor is a type of false labor contraction that can occur in the third trimester of pregnancy and can feel a lot like real labor. It is often called "false labor" or "pre-labor" because while it can feel like labor is starting, the contractions you feel dont progress toward delivery. Prodromal labor consists of contractions that can be fairly regular (between 5-10 minutes apart) and can be painful like active labor contractions, more so than Braxton Hicks contractions. However, unlike actual labor, prodromal labor contractions never get stronger or closer together and don’t lead to cervical dilation or effacement. Prodromal labor is your body’s way of prepping you for the real thing, and it can be both frustrating and confusing to experience false labor contractions. It is suggested that prodromal contractions may help encourage the baby into a suitable birthing position, prepare the muscles, ligaments, and pelvis for active labor, and help prepare the mother for what is soon coming: active labor. Prodromal labor can tire you out and use up the energy youll need for active labor and delivery.