If you're an expectant mother, congratulations! You're going through one of the most life-altering experiences imaginable. But as with all good things, it can come with its fair share of challenges- false labor pains being one of them.
False labor isn't actually labor but mimics the signs and symptoms pretty well- causing some major confusion among pregnant women. Although these practice contractions do not lead to delivery, they are undeniably unpleasant and confusing when experienced for the first time in pregnancy.
You might think that knowing what is happening inside your body will help calm down those crazy feelings; that's where we come into play - this post is here to help you get a grasp on how to deal with fake contractions like a boss!
What are False Labor Pains?
During pregnancy, your uterus contracts periodically but many women don't even notice them unless they’re getting close to their due date. The difference between true or real contractions and Braxton Hicks or false ones lies in intensity & frequency.
Braxton Hicks feels like a tightening sensation across the belly & eases after switching body position while true/real ones intensify gradually& last longer as the baby prepares for birth eventually culminating or climaxing into active labour pains.
How Can You Identify Them?
Here’s a heads up-you needn’t necessarily wiggle out due allowance from Work until measuring parameters identify it being “active labour”
Although not fully understood why false labour occurs,it mostly occurs randomly-showcasing no consistent pattern however comes more frequently towards evening hours after Dinner-table discussions revolve around What themes would be best suited for Baby-Naming-
Let’s understand common parameters indicative of False Labour:
Contractions strength:
Painful during Active Labour Mild discomfort at wane During Braxton hicks/false pain
Contractions regularity:
Painful During Active Labour Random or non-regular in Braxton Hicks/False Pains
Contractions duration:
Painful during Active labour Very brief and short-lived in Braxton hicks
How to Deal with False Labor?
The first step is to recognize that it’s just false contractions & not the real deal. As an expectant mother, it's quite normal for apprehensiveness/anxiety-stricken thoughts to settle; however, it will be good owing stress-piles would last from conception through child-rearing so now buckle and learn strategies on how best-tailored approach towards dealing with bogus pains;
Stay Alert but Relaxed:
Stay mindful of contractions by timing frequency & duration using a stop-watch but avoid getting anxious because anxiety exacerbates discomfort.
Inhale/exhale - combat the depressing feeling throug conscious-breathing techniques: belly breathing releases tension amongst other benefits like promoting inner-body calmness.
A few exercises you can try include deep-diaphragmatic breathing or slow-paced inhaling bur exhaling through your nose-based breathing termed pranayama-even gentle stretches like standing near a wall stretching arms above your head elevate mood releasing endorphin hormones that enhance life-centric outlooks-Life is Good!!!
Move Around:
If at home move around conducting mild house-cleaning activities(stress-relieving activity) take strolls while maintaining posture & balance as recommended. Walking uprightly helps increase blood flow toward lower body thus alleviate pain caused by muscle firming up movements- while taking breaks could curb uncomfortable feelings when attending important appointments one could switch between different positions allowing respite.
Drink Water Instead of Anything Caffeinated:
Drinking water reduces dehydration (a known cause of uterus contracting), thus calming down sensations often caused by strenuous activity, allowing upper respiratory tract air circulation efficient oxygenation aiding lactic acid breakdown significantly reducing the overall need for endurance.
In Conclusion
False pain and contractions can be challenging to deal with. But if you're mindful of what's happening within your body, practice regular deep-breathing techniques, don't stress too much & stay hydrated- they become bearable as time goes on.
Keep in mind there is nothing insignificant concerning Pregnancy/Apprehensiveness/Curiosity - No matter Braxton Hicks or actual labour pain/start of a contraction sequence should trigger immediate mindfulness session taking note of any unordained feelings at that point paying keen attention during anticipation will avoid stress excursions while promoting right nurturing habits & positive vibes##