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True labor contractions

Learning how contractions are measured can help you determine whether your contractions are the real thing. Contractions are described in three ways – frequency (how often contractions occur), duration (how long each contraction lasts, from beginning to end) and intensity (the strength of the contraction). True labor contractions settle into a pattern.

• Frequency. Contractions get closer together over time. The length of time from the beginning of one contraction to the beginning of the next gets shorter.
• Duration. As labor progresses, contractions last longer. Early on, they last only 20 seconds, but gradually increase to from 60 seconds to 70 seconds. During transition labor, some contractions may last up to 90 seconds.
• Intensity. Contractions, which grow stronger with time, are rated as mild, moderate and strong. Most women will have contractions that get progressively more uncomfortable as true labor continues.

It will take you some time, most likely, to tell if contractions are true labor. As time passes and contractions continue, you should feel them getting stronger and lasting longer. To help confirm, empty your bladder and drink two glasses of water.  Lie down and rest for at least an hour. True labor contractions will continue.

Labor and when to go to the hospital.