True vs. False Labor

Key Concepts

• Importance of differentiating between true and false labor for maternity exams.
• Focus on the characteristics of contractions and their effects on the body.

Characteristics to Observe

1. Contraction Frequency
   • True labor: Regular, predictable contractions.
   • False labor: Irregular, erratic, unpredictable contractions.
2. Contraction Intensity
   • True labor: Strong contractions that keep getting stronger, radiating pain.
   • False labor: Varying intensity, with weak and strong contractions alternating.
3. Contraction Achievement
   • True labor: Contractions cause cervical changes (dilation, effacement) and baby descends.
   • False labor: No significant cervical changes, baby position remains unchanged.
4. Effect of Activity
   • True labor: Contractions persist regardless of activity or position change.
   • False labor: Contractions diminish or stop with activity or change in position.

Mnemonics

True Labor - "TRUE"

• T - Timing: Regular contractions following the 5-1-1 rule (every 5 minutes, lasting 1 minute for at least 1 hour).
• R - Radiating Pain: Pain starts in lower back and radiates to the abdomen, with vaginal pressure.
• U - Unable to Relieve: Activity does not relieve contraction pain.
• E - Exam Changes: Cervical dilation, effacement, and engagement of the baby in the pelvis.

False Labor - "FAKE"

• F - Fails to Cause Changes: No cervical dilation or effacement, baby not engaged.
• A - Activity Diminishes: Contractions ease off or go away with activity.
• K - Keep Feeling Above Belly Button: Pain confined above the belly button, does not radiate.
• E - Erratic Timing: Contractions are irregular and unpredictable.

Additional Resources

• Access the free quiz to test knowledge on this content.
• Explore other videos in the maternity review series for comprehensive understanding.