The nurse teaches a pregnant woman about the characteristics of true labor contractions. The nurse evaluates the woman’s understanding of the instructions when she states, True labor contractions will:
Continue and get stronger even if I relax and take a shower
True labor contractions will have the following characteristics:
1. Regularity: The contractions will become increasingly regular and frequent, occurring at intervals that become shorter over time.
2. Duration: True labor contractions will last longer than Braxton Hicks contractions. They will typically last for 30 to 70 seconds.
3. Intensity: The intensity of true labor contractions will gradually increase over time. The woman may feel discomfort or pain in her back, pelvis, and thighs.
4. Location: True labor contractions usually originate in the lower back and radiate to the front of the abdomen. The woman may also feel pressure in her rectum or pelvis.
5. Progression: True labor contractions will cause the cervix to dilate and efface, preparing the body for delivery. The woman may also experience a bloody show or the discharge of mucus from the cervix.
It is important for the pregnant woman to recognize these characteristics so that she can differentiate true labor contractions from false labor contractions, or Braxton Hicks contractions. If she is unsure whether she is in true labor, she should contact her healthcare provider for guidance.
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