While normal labor contractions will be regular and frequent, false labor contractions will happen at odd intervals and periodically. You may have several really long contractions that cause you to be concerned, but they do not mean you are in active labor.  For example, you may have regular pains for half an hour, but then have a break from the contractions. Alternatively, you may notice that your contractions are lasting for random amounts of time, such as a minute-long contraction followed by a 20 second long contraction. While true labor contractions will last from 30 to 70 seconds, Braxton-Hicks contractions will vary in length, usually lasting from 15 to 30 seconds. Some false contractions can even last as long as two minutes, which is an immediate sign that they are not true contractions. True labor contractions will slowly progress toward sharper, well-timed contractions, while Braxton-Hicks contractions will continue to be sporadic. Braxton-Hicks contractions will often stop if you rest, change position, or start to slowly walk around. However, true contractions will continue no matter what. If you’ve tried resting or changing positions and the contractions continue, contact your doctor immediately. Braxton-Hicks contractions are usually described as more uncomfortable than painful. You may feel your abdomen contracting and tightening without sharp pains. True labor will be felt more in the lower back and will be painful. During Braxton-Hicks contractions, you will still be able to feel your baby moving around, unlike with regular labor. While it can add to your discomfort, your baby’s movements are a sign that you aren’t having real contractions because you won’t feel your baby during real labor.

Summary:
Notice if your contractions happen randomly or infrequently. Time your contractions to see if they last from 15 to 30 seconds. See if they stop when you rest or change position. Notice if you’re feeling discomfort and tightening in your abdomen. Notice if you can feel your baby moving.