Definition of Labor, false Labor, false: Intermittent non-
productive muscular contractions of the womb (uterus) during
pregnancy, most commonly in the last two months before full
term. These contractions are non-productive in the sense that
they do not produce any flattening (effacement) or dilation
(opening up) of the cervix. It is often said that false
contractions are for "practice," for getting the woman ready for
true labor, but this is pure speculation since there is no
convincing evidence that these contractions aid in the delivery
of the baby in any way. An episode of false labor can surprise
and concern a pregnant woman, especially when she experiences
these contractions for the first time. But, by definition, these
contractions are of limited duration and do not indicate the
onset of active labor.Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionary Last
Editorial Review: 6/14/2012 Medical Dictionary Definitions A - Z
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