3 Signs That You May Be in Labor

No one wants to arrive at the hospital too early -- or risk giving birth in the car. So how can you tell the difference between real and false labor? Pay attention to the following classic labor-day signs.

By Sandra Gordon

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Your Contractions Hurt

The biggest confusion when it comes to labor is that it can be hard to distinguish between false and real contractions. As you approach your due date, you may feel something labor-like -- namely, contractions that are mildly uncomfortable and vary in intensity. Unlike the benign, preparatory contractions of false labor, real contractions are painful. They build in intensity so "you can't walk or talk through them," says Susan Warhus, MD, an ob-gyn and author of Countdown to Baby (Addicus Books).

Next: Labor Contractions Are Strong, Repetitive, and Persistent