Health Tips for June 22

Health Tip: False Labor or Real Labor?

Many women mistake the irregular contractions of the uterus that constitute "false labor" as the real deal.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this comparison of real labor versus false labor:

• Real labor contractions last about 30 seconds to 70 seconds, and get closer together over time. False labor pains are inconsistent, and don't occur more frequently as they continue.
• Pains and contractions that continue even when you move around or change positions are a sign of real labor. Pains that are relieved by movement, rest, or changing positions are signs of false labor.
• Labor pains are strong and get increasingly stronger as they continue. False labor pains may become weaker over time or stay the same intensity.
• While false labor pains are in the front of the belly, real labor pains often start in the lower back and move to the front.

Health Tip: Be More Comfortable During Childbirth

Few women would say childbirth is easy. The amount and type of pain depends on the woman herself, her baby's size and its position, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says.

The college offers these general suggestions for how to stay more comfortable during childbirth:

• Well before the birth, take childbirth classes that will teach you breathing techniques and relaxation methods to use in the delivery room.
• Ask your partner to apply pressure and massage your lower back. Tennis balls or your partner's hands will do fine.
• Apply an ice pack to your lower back.
• Change positions as often as is necessary to get more comfortable.
• Ask your doctor or nurse if you can take a shower.
• Use a damp, cool washcloth to wipe down your body if you get too hot.