--- title: "Pre Labor vs. True Labor at Sutter Health" description: "Learn how to recognize true labor vs. false labor, when to go to the hospital, and what to expect during early labor for first-time moms." url: "https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/pre-labor-vs-true-labor" --- 1. [Home](https://www.sutterhealth.org/) / 2. [Health and wellness](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health) / 3. Pre Labor Vs True Labor # How to Know When You’re in Labor Read our friendly guide for first-time moms. * * * July 7, 2025Medically reviewed by [Per L. Sandberg, M.D., FACOG](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider/dr-per-l-sandberg-1046240705) If this is your first time going through [labor](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/labor-and-delivery), it’s normal to feel unsure about when it’s really time to head to the hospital. The best first step? Call your [doctor or midwife](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/pregnancy-and-childbirth) to chat about what you’re feeling. They’re there to guide you every step of the way.  ## Early Signs: Pre-Labor vs. True Labor Many first-time moms make a few [trips to the hospital](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/when-to-go-to-hospital) before active labor begins. That’s because there are different kinds of contractions that can feel similar but mean very different things:  **False (Practice) Labor:** - Irregular, short contractions that don’t get stronger or closer together - Often felt in the front or groin area - Walking or resting may stop them - No significant change in the cervix  **Prodromal Labor:** - May start irregular and become somewhat regular but usually stay more than 5 minutes apart - Can feel strong but don’t steadily get closer - May last a day or more, making rest difficult - Cervix may thin but doesn’t open much  **True Labor:** - Contractions grow longer, stronger, and closer together (usually under 5 minutes apart) - Walking often makes contractions stronger; lying down doesn’t make them stop - Typically start in your back and move toward the front - Cause the cervix to thin (efface) and open (dilate), helping the baby move down Only a medical provider can confirm if your cervix is changing and you’re in true labor.  ## What Happens When Labor Begins? Labor may start for many reasons, such as your baby’s development signals, hormone changes or the uterus reaching a certain size. But no matter the cause, it means your body is getting ready to meet your baby!  ## When to Go to the Hospital Most doctors and midwives recommend calling them when these patterns continue steadily for an hour: - Your contractions are about 5 minutes apart - Each contraction lasts around 60 seconds Be ready to share: - How often and how long your contractions are - Whether your water has broken (and the color of the fluid) - If you notice any bloody show If you’re managing well at home and it’s your first baby, it’s usually okay to wait until contractions feel really intense before heading to the hospital. But if you live far away or have special concerns, it’s better to leave earlier.  ## What to Expect at the Hospital When you arrive, a nurse will check your vital signs and monitor your baby’s heart rate and your contractions. Then, your doctor or midwife will perform a vaginal exam to see how your cervix is progressing. You’ll usually be admitted once you’re in active labor. This means contractions are less than 5 minutes apart, lasting 45-60 seconds, and your cervix is at least 3 centimeters dilated. If you’re still in early labor, they might send you home to rest and relax. Don’t worry — this is super common and nothing to feel bad about!  ## Tips for Early Labor at Home If sent home during early labor, try to: - Walk around - Take a warm shower - Drink plenty of fluids - Rest when you can - Listen to calming music or watch something enjoyable These little comforts can help you stay relaxed and prepare your body for active labor. **An Extra Note** If you tested positive for [Group B Strep](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/group-b-strep) during pregnancy or have other risk factors, you’ll receive antibiotics before delivery to keep you and your baby safe.  ## Explore related topics [Labor and delivery](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/articles?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_healthTopics.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Labor+and+delivery%22%5D%7D%2C%7B%22i%22%3A%22builtin.entityType%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Sutter+Health+Page%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&verticalKey=health-and-wellness)[Labor and Delivery Basics](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/articles?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_healthTopics.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Labor+and+Delivery+Basics%22%5D%7D%2C%7B%22i%22%3A%22builtin.entityType%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Sutter+Health+Page%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&verticalKey=health-and-wellness)[Third Trimester](https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/articles?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_healthTopics.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Third+Trimester%22%5D%7D%2C%7B%22i%22%3A%22builtin.entityType%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Sutter+Health+Page%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&verticalKey=health-and-wellness) ## Support at Every Step From conception to delivery and after, our [pregnancy and childbirth](https://www.sutterhealth.org/services/pregnancy-and-childbirth) providers put you first. [Book an Appointment](https://www.sutterhealth.org/find-provider-results?facets=%5B%7B%22i%22%3A%22c_providerSpecialties.specialty.name%22%2C%22v%22%3A%5B%22Infertility%22%2C%22Nurse+Midwife%22%2C%22Obstetrics+and+Gynecology%22%2C%22Reproductive+Endocrinology%22%5D%7D%5D&limit=10&verticalKey=healthcare_professionals) ## Meet our care team ![Per L. Sandberg, M.D., FACOG](http://a.mktgcdn.com/p/4K9H0GwE7hMhbI4to6T6jSaoV8tqfmu64gbh40b5XKU/480x480.png) [Per L. 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