Nesting
Cervical Changes
TRUE labor: Contraction strength
TRUE labor: Contraction discomfort
FALSE labor: Contractions
Braxton-Hicks
Spontaneous rupture of the mebranes
Lightening
Bloody Show
FALSE labor: Contraction discomfort
TRUE labor: Contractions
FALSE labor: Contraction strength
Contractions 4-6 mins apart; lasting 30-60 seconds
Uterus lowers & moves into an anterior position
Contraction discomfort = starts in the back and radiates to abdomen
Increased energy level reported by some women
Mucous plug is expelled; cervical capillaries release some blood
Sudden gush or steady leakage of fluids
Cervix changes to a shortened, thinned segment
Tightening or pulling sensation at the top of the uterus
Contraction strength = usually weak; not getting stronger with time
Contractions irregular; not occurring closely together
Contraction strength = stronger with time; vaginal pressure present
Contraction discomfort = usually felt in the front of abdomen only
